The 45 Indian fishermen were released from Malir jail, Karachi, on May 24. PHOTO: PFF
Ansar Burney and activists of Pakistan Fisherfolk Forum (PFF) received the freed fishermen, who later left Karachi by a bus to reach Wagah Border, Lahore. They will be handed over to Indian authorities at the Wagah border on Saturday.
Earlier, Prime Minister Justice (R) Mir Hazar Khan Khoso announced to release 51 Indian fishermen on humanitarian grounds as a gesture of goodwill. These prisoners have already served their sentences.
However, the government released 45 fishermen, as six others have yet to complete their term of sentence. These fishermen were caught under the common crime of violating sea territory and served time in jail for seven to nine months.
The 42 fishermen were released from Malir jail, while three others were in Juvenile Jail, Karachi.
Among the released fishermen were three minor children, including Vipal son of Raja Bamaniya, Ramesh son of Varjan and Akshay son of Nanu. The children had the similar stories, saying they belong to poor families and being the only bread-earners of the family they earn living through this job. After a seven month stay in Pakistani jails, away from their family, they were happy after being released.
Fishing is their family profession, they said. They do not have a better alternative to earn. Their parents are unable to work; hence the conditions forced them to leave their education and join fishing for their livelihood.
They narrated horrible tales, while they were caught by border security forces and put in jail for several months.
Disabled persons narrating the plight said they cannot perform hard work. They joined boats and helped crew members in pulling nets and earned little to run their families.
There were a total of 479 Indian fishermen in Pakistani jails, out of which 45 were released, while others are still waiting to return to their homes. There are 496 Pakistanis in Indian jails, including 223 fishermen.
COMMENTS (3)
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Stealing fish from another country's territorial waters, specially in breeding season is a crime, no matter it is a poor or rich guy, he got to be punished.
three minor children, belong to poor families and being the only bread-earners of the family and seven months in Pakistani jails.
how one Translate this into reason of feeling proud? at least I am ASHAMED.