Fisherwomen protest illegal detainment of fishermen

Wednesday, February 11, 2009
By our correspondent

Karachi

A large number of fisherwomen protested excesses allegedly committed by Indian coastal authorities outside the Sindh Assembly premises on Tuesday, and later marched towards Karachi Press Club, where the protest culminated.

Pakistan Fisherfolk Forum (PFF) organised the rally, and was led by its chairperson Mohammed Ali Shah. The relatives of victims hailing from different coastal areas of Thatta district, Keti Bunder, Kharochan, Shah Bunder, Chuch Jahan Khan, Jati, Jungisar and Haji Yousuf Katiar took active part in the rally to demand the release of fishermen who are languishing in different jails in India.

Speakers at the rally said that the lingering dispute between both neighbouring countries over the Sir Creek has been the main cause of fishermen’s suffering. They demanded that the dispute should be settled so that fishermen of both sides can take find relief as they have lost many people, who have died in jails.

Quoting recent incidents, Mohammed Ali Shah accused Indian authorities of violating Pakistani territories and arresting crew members. He urged world human rights groups to pressurise the Indians to abide by international laws.

Mohammed Ismail, the owner of recently lost fishing boat Mashallah carrying 11 crewmembers, told The News that he is sure that “his people” must be in Indian jails. He said that despite all efforts, there have been no information about the incident, and the families remain apprehensive and uncertain. 

Tahira Ali, a PFF activist, said: “It is inhumane that breadwinners are being arrested, whose wives and children suffer deprivation and poverty back home.”