Indian Fisherman Dies in Pakistan Jail Years After Sentence Ended
An Indian fisherman from Gujarat died in a Pakistani prison on August 27, sparking serious concerns over the continued detention of Indian nationals who have already served their prison terms.
According to journalist and peace activist Jatin Desai, the incident marks the second death of an Indian fisherman in a Pakistani jail this year. The deceased fisherman had completed his prison sentence on March 16, 2022, and his Indian nationality had been confirmed several years ago. Despite fulfilling his sentence and having his nationality verified, he remained incarcerated.
Desai raised questions regarding the delay in the fisherman's release, asking whether he would have survived had authorities repatriated him immediately following the completion of his prison term.
The activist noted that numerous other Indian nationals remain stuck in Pakistani facilities under similar circumstances. According to Desai, 10 Indian fishermen currently held in Pakistani jails completed their sentences on July 16, 2021. Another group of 114 fishermen completed their prison terms on March 16, 2022, yet they continue to be detained across the border.
Desai stated that this prolonged detention directly violates the bilateral understanding established under the 2008 Agreement on Consular Access between India and Pakistan. Under Article 5 of the agreement, both nations agreed to repatriate prisoners back to their home countries within one month of the completion of their sentences and the confirmation of their nationality.
Stressing the terms of the accord, Desai said that individuals who have completed their sentences and whose nationality has already been established should have been released and repatriated in accordance with the agreement.
Following the incident, Desai called for urgent action and demanded that the mortal remains of the deceased fisherman be repatriated to India at the earliest.
The death has once again drawn attention to the situation of Indian fishermen who inadvertently cross the maritime border between India and Pakistan and subsequently face prolonged detention in Pakistani jails, remaining locked up long after their judicial sentences have ended.
