Dhaka has officially banned the export of Padma hilsa fish to India, casting a shadow over Durga Puja celebrations, particularly in West Bengal. The previous government, under former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, had permitted hilsa exports to India between August and October as a goodwill gesture. However, the new interim government, which took charge after the fall of Hasina’s administration, has decided to prioritize domestic consumption, especially for lower-income households, over exports.
Farida Akhter, an advisor to Bangladesh’s Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, confirmed the halt, stating that the move aims to stabilize hilsa prices within the country. However, reports indicate that “growing anti-Indian sentiments” may have influenced the decision. Sources suggest that despite the ban, prices of hilsa have not yet dropped significantly in Bangladesh. While the price had initially fallen to Tk 1,600 per kilogram, it has since risen to Tk 1,800-1,900.
Last year, under the Hasina government, 79 exporters were allowed to send 3,950 tonnes of hilsa to India during Durga Puja, which was well-received by consumers in India.
Meanwhile, following her ouster, Sheikh Hasina fled to India after a violent uprising on August 5, which claimed the lives of nearly 300 people, including students. Bangladesh is reportedly considering asking New Delhi to extradite Hasina, who faces murder charges along with several of her former cabinet members.
Source: bt Bangladesh Today