26 Indian Fishermen Die in Pakistani Jail Over Last Decade: Peace Activist’s Report
Over the past ten years, a total of 26 Indian fishermen have tragically lost their lives while in Pakistani custody. This distressing revelation comes as a stark reminder of the harsh realities faced by individuals caught in cross-border disputes. The family of Suresh Nathu, an Indian fisherman who passed away in a Karachi prison on September 5, has been left waiting for a month for his mortal remains to be repatriated.
In response to a Right to Information (RTI) request from Indo-Pak peace activist and veteran journalist, Jatin Desai, the High Commission of India in Islamabad disclosed that between January 2014 and December 2023, 24 Indian fishermen had died while in Pakistan’s custody. Desai further highlighted that two more Indian fishermen lost their lives this year alone. Vinod Laxman from Dahanu taluka of Palghar district, Maharashtra, passed away on March 17, with his mortal remains finally reaching his village on May 1. Suresh Nathu’s recent demise on September 5 has left his family and friends anxiously awaiting the repatriation of his remains. Desai emphasized the urgent need for Pakistan to expedite the process of returning Nathu’s mortal remains to his grieving loved ones.
As of the latest update, there are currently 210 Indian fishermen languishing in Pakistani jails for unintentionally crossing the maritime border. Shockingly, approximately 180 of these individuals have already completed their sentences, and their nationality has been verified long ago. Desai pointed out that as per section (V) of the Bilateral Agreement on Consular Access signed between India and Pakistan in 2008, both countries are obligated to release and repatriate individuals within one month of confirming their national status and completing their sentences. This means that the majority of these Indian fishermen should have been freed and returned to their homeland by Pakistan without delay.
Despite the clear directives outlined in the bilateral agreement, 52 Indian fishermen have been detained in Pakistani prisons for over three years, while an additional 130 individuals have been incarcerated for more than two years. Desai expressed concern for the health and well-being of around 10 Indian fishermen who are reportedly in poor conditions while awaiting resolution. These prolonged detentions not only inflict emotional distress on the detainees and their families but also raise serious questions about adherence to international agreements and humanitarian principles.
In light of these distressing developments, it is imperative for both India and Pakistan to prioritize the humane treatment and swift repatriation of individuals caught in such unfortunate circumstances. The loss of 26 Indian fishermen over the past decade serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for improved mechanisms to address cross-border disputes and ensure the protection of human rights for all individuals involved. The families of the deceased fishermen deserve closure and compassion, while those still detained await justice and reunification with their loved ones. The international community must also remain vigilant in monitoring and advocating for the fair treatment of individuals caught in such challenging situations to prevent further loss of life and suffering.
