KARACHI – Seven Pakistani fishermen, who accidentally crossed into Indian waters due to a storm, have finally been released after seven years of imprisonment. Their families greeted them with flowers and heartfelt hugs upon their return to Karachi, celebrating a long-awaited reunion.
The released fishermen, including Gul Sher, Samar, Ghulam Mustafa, Rajan, Sogunjo, Abdullah, and Allah Bachaya, were welcomed at the Edhi Center Tower. Hafiz-e-Quran Abdullah, who had been imprisoned alongside his brother and six others, described how bad weather had led them into Indian territory.
Abdullah shared the harsh realities of their imprisonment, saying Pakistani fishermen faced cruel treatment in Indian jails. “Many Pakistani fishermen are still behind bars despite court orders for their release,” he revealed, urging the government to take immediate action. He described the inhumane conditions, where prisoners were kept in windowless rooms for up to a year without seeing sunlight. Meals were scarce, and the overall treatment was unbearable.
Other fishermen echoed these experiences, recounting how they were isolated from the outside world and subjected to severe mistreatment. Their plea to the Pakistani government was clear: secure the release of the remaining fishermen in Indian prisons, so they too can reunite with their families.
The Edhi Foundation supported their journey home by covering travel costs from Wagah Border to Karachi and offering gifts to the families of the freed fishermen.
While the fishermen’s return has brought joy to their families, the ordeal has highlighted the urgent need for diplomatic efforts to ensure the safe release of those still detained in India.
