Indian fisherman dies in Pakistani custody

Allegedly chained with iron shackles while undergoing medical treatment

Junagadh (Gujarat) – Pakistani prisons have become death traps for Indian fishermen. There is tremendous disturbance following the death of an Indian fisherman lodged in custody there. The deceased, Bhagabhai Bamaniya, was a resident of Chikhli village in Gir Somnath district, Gujarat. His death in a Karachi prison has ignited fury among his family members and the local community.

According to reports, Bamaniya suddenly fell ill while in prison and was taken to a hospital in Karachi for treatment where he passed away recently. Serious allegations of inhuman treatment to Indian patients in Pakistani hospitals have emerged in the aftermath. A video that has surfaced, reportedly shows Bamaniya bound in iron chains while receiving treatment at the hospital. The footage has infuriated his relatives, who have condemned the alleged mistreatment by Pakistani authorities.

Bhagabhai Bamaniya had reportedly been detained on 18 February 2022, when Pakistani security agencies seized him along with his boat, Buraq.

Bhalubhai Soch, President of the Samudra Suraksha Shramik Sangh, has accused Pakistani officials of inhuman treatment, calling it a violation of basic human rights. It is estimated that nearly 200 Indian fishermen, apprehended near maritime borders, remain imprisoned in Pakistan.

Editorial Perspective

Repeated instances of abuse of Indian fishermen raise serious concerns – what will Indian government do to deter Pakistan forever from indulging in such activities ?