Fishermen – 128 Gujarat Fishermen Remain Jailed in Pakistan, Three Dead
Fishermen – The Gujarat government has informed the State Assembly that 128 fishermen from the state were lodged in prisons in Pakistan as of January 20, 2026. The disclosure also confirmed that three of them have died in custody over the past two years, bringing renewed attention to the long-standing issue of maritime arrests in the Arabian Sea.
Government Shares Data in Assembly
The figures were presented on Friday by the state’s fisheries minister while responding to a question raised by an MLA from the Aam Aadmi Party. According to the details placed on record, two of the deaths occurred between January 21, 2024, and January 20, 2025, while another was reported on January 20, 2026.
The data shared in the Assembly reflects the continuing detention of fishermen who are often apprehended for allegedly crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line. Such arrests have been a recurring issue between India and Pakistan for decades, with both countries periodically exchanging lists of prisoners.
Death of Bhagabhai Bamaniya Draws Attention
The most recent death is associated with Bhagabhai Bamaniya, a resident of Chikhli village in Una taluka of Junagadh district. He died in Karachi on January 16 after reportedly falling ill while in jail. His body was later repatriated to Gujarat.
Bamaniya had been arrested on February 18, 2022, along with his fishing vessel, Burak (IND-GJ-11-MM-21), by Pakistani security agencies. Following his detention, he was lodged in a Karachi prison along with other Indian fishermen.
According to official information, he developed health complications during his incarceration and was shifted to a hospital, where he died while undergoing treatment. His passing has once again highlighted concerns surrounding the prolonged detention of fishermen who inadvertently cross maritime borders.
Viral Video Sparks Human Rights Concerns
Public discussion intensified after a video began circulating on social media platforms. The footage, which is yet to be independently verified, appears to show Bamaniya receiving medical treatment while his legs were restrained with iron shackles. The visuals prompted questions from community representatives and activists regarding custodial treatment and adherence to medical protocols.
The incident has led to calls for greater transparency in the handling of detained fishermen, particularly those requiring medical care. Human rights advocates have urged both governments to ensure humane conditions and timely consular access.
Diplomatic Engagement Continues
During the Assembly session, the state government stated that both the Gujarat administration and the Central government are in regular communication with Pakistani authorities. Diplomatic channels, officials said, remain active in seeking the release and repatriation of Indian fishermen.
Despite ongoing correspondence between the two sides, the number of detainees indicates that progress has been gradual. Maritime arrests frequently occur due to the absence of clearly marked boundaries at sea and the limited navigation equipment available on small fishing boats.
Welfare Support for Affected Families
Alongside diplomatic efforts, the welfare of families left behind has also come under focus. Representatives of the fishing community have pointed out that state assistance for families of detained fishermen remains modest.
Under an existing scheme, families receive Rs 300 per month and an annual assistance of Rs 9,000 for subsistence. However, eligibility conditions apply. If a fisherman is detained more than once for crossing the maritime boundary, his family is not entitled to financial support. This clause has drawn criticism from social workers, who argue that repeat detentions often stem from economic compulsion rather than deliberate violations.
For coastal communities dependent on daily earnings from fishing, the absence of the primary breadwinner can have severe financial consequences. Community leaders have urged authorities to review assistance norms and expand support mechanisms.
The issue of detained fishermen continues to underscore the humanitarian dimensions of cross-border maritime disputes. While diplomatic engagement remains ongoing, families on both sides await timely resolution and safe return of those still in custody.