In a flagrant violation of international law, Indian Border Security forces apprehended a Pakistani fisherman from within Pakistan's territorial waters late Tuesday night.
According to reports from the coastal area of Jati Taluka, Sujawal district, Babu, son of Umer Malah, was fishing near Harami Creek when Indian forces attacked and abducted him. Babu, the sole breadwinner of his family, had been working in the fishing industry for many years.
Noor Muhammad Themore, a representative of the Pakistan Fisherfolk Forum, condemned the actions of the Indian forces and government for violating international humanitarian and maritime laws.
"The Indian forces have committed an offense by entering Pakistan's territorial waters and arresting innocent fishermen," Themore said. "The international community's inaction on this critical human rights issue is utterly surprising."
This incident highlights the ongoing plight of Pakistani fishermen, many of whom have been languishing in Indian jails for years. According to official data released by the Foreign Ministry last year, around 81 Pakistani fishermen are currently imprisoned in Indian jails, including 56 who have completed their sentences. Of these 81 fishermen, 20 are from Jati Taluka, Sujawal district.
Critics argue that organizations established for the welfare of fishermen have failed to improve their lives or facilitate their release. The latest incident has sparked widespread concern among human rights activists and the fishing community, who are demanding immediate action from the authorities to secure the release of Babu and other detained fishermen. Family members of imprisoned fishermen have revealed that they were subjected to severe physical and mental torture during their incarceration.