Fishermen have called upon the government to bring home 70 Pakistani fishermen languishing in Indian jails and to implement the laws protecting the rights of the fishing communities.
On the occasion of World Fisheries Day, hundreds of thousands of fishermen gathered in Badin, showcasing their positive societal contributions through a cultural show.
Pakistan Fisherfolk Forum (PFF) Chairman Mehran Shah emphasized that the fishing community is not seeking charity but rather equitable treatment in accordance with the law.
He pointed out that while the Pakistani government has recently released 80 Indian fishermen, there is a pressing need for reciprocal action from the Indian government to release Pakistani fishermen immediately.
Highlighting the global significance of World Fisheries Day, Shah underscored the importance of water and its impact on human lives. He expressed concerns about ocean grabbing and called for measures to prevent the release of untreated waste into the sea, stressing that such practices could have severe consequences for the community dependent on fishing.
Read more India urged to release detained fishermen
The World Fisheries Day is celebrated every year on November 21 throughout the world by the fisherfolk communities, taking out rallies, holding workshops, public meetings, cultural programmes, plays, exhibitions, music show, and demonstrations to highlight the importance of maintaining the world's fisheries.
Shah also addressed the broader issue of the government not recognizing fishermen as labor, despite their significant contribution to Pakistan's revenue. He urged the government to uphold international conventions, implement laws, and take measures to ensure a dignified life for fishermen.
The rally brought together fishermen from various districts, including Karachi, Thatta, Sujawal, Sanghar, Hyderabad, and Jamshoro.
Former PFF chairman Muhammad Ali Shah received a standing ovation from the participants, who praised and commended his dedicated struggle. A cultural show highlighted the vibrant aspects of indigenous people, while leaders like Umar Mallah….. reiterated the challenges faced by the fishing community. The leaders emphasized that insufficient mangrove plantation and deforestation in coastal areas, particularly in Karachi, pose a direct threat to the livelihood of fishermen.
The PFF leadership warned of launching a movement if the government fails to take appropriate measures to address their concerns, signaling a unified stance among fishermen to secure their rights and livelihoods.
Published in The Express Tribune, November 22nd, 2023.
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