Pakistan has released 22 Indian fishermen who were detained for allegedly fishing in Pakistani waters between 2021 and 2022. The fishermen, mostly from Gujarat, Diu, and Uttar Pradesh, arrived at the Attari-Wagah border on Saturday.
Speaking to ANI, Arunpal Singh, Protocol Officer at Attari-Wagah border, said, “Pakistan today released 22 fishermen who were caught while fishing in 2021-22. They were sentenced for different durations, ranging from 12 months to 36 months. Today, they have returned, and everyone is happy.”
Of the released fishermen, 18 belong to Gujarat, three to Diu, and one to Uttar Pradesh.
Concerns Over Remaining Indian Fishermen in Pakistan
Despite this release, 180 Indian fishermen remain imprisoned in Pakistani jails. According to reports, in the last two years, eight Indian fishermen have died in Pakistan’s custody.
Most recently, an Indian fisherman died in Karachi jail on January 23. Despite completing his sentence and verification of his Indian nationality, he was not released.
India has been consistently raising the issue of the timely release of Indian fishermen with Pakistani authorities, urging for humanitarian considerations.
Repatriation of Indian Fishermen from Sri Lanka
Meanwhile, 15 Indian fishermen repatriated from Sri Lanka arrived in Chennai on Thursday evening. They will now be sent to their respective homes.
The High Commission of India in Sri Lanka confirmed their return through a post on X, stating, “Back home! 15 Indian fishermen were repatriated from Sri Lanka last evening.”
Political Reactions and Diplomatic Efforts
The detention of Indian fishermen in Sri Lanka and Pakistan has sparked protests in India. On February 7, opposition MPs from Tamil Nadu staged a protest in Parliament, demanding the immediate return of detained fishermen.
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin also urged External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and the Centre to take diplomatic action for their release. He emphasized the need for sustained diplomatic engagement to protect fishermen’s livelihoods and prevent future arrests.
Last month, 41 Indian fishermen detained by the Sri Lankan Navy arrived in Chennai after their release. They had been arrested near Katchatheevu on September 8, 2024, for alleged cross-border fishing.
Ongoing Diplomatic Efforts
With repeated incidents of Indian fishermen being detained, India continues its diplomatic engagements with Pakistan and Sri Lanka. The release of the 22 fishermen marks a positive step, but concerns remain over those still in custody.
