Indian Fisherman Dies by Suicide in Karachi Jail After Two Years of Imprisonment

New Delhi/Karachi, March 27, 2025 — An Indian fisherman, who had been imprisoned in Pakistan’s Karachi jail since 2022, reportedly died by suicide inside the prison premises, officials confirmed on Wednesday.

The deceased has been identified as Ramesh Makwana, a resident of Gujarat's Gir Somnath district. He was arrested by Pakistan Maritime Security Agency in 2022 after allegedly crossing the international maritime boundary while fishing in the Arabian Sea.

According to sources, Makwana was lodged in Karachi’s Landhi Jail along with several other Indian fishermen awaiting release. Jail authorities informed that he was found hanging in the barrack’s washroom during routine morning checks.

The exact cause behind the extreme step is still unclear, but officials suspect prolonged imprisonment, uncertainty over repatriation, and mental distress could have contributed to the suicide. Pakistani authorities have launched an internal inquiry and informed the Indian High Commission in Islamabad.

India and Pakistan frequently detain each other's fishermen who inadvertently cross the poorly demarcated maritime boundary. Delays in their release often occur due to strained diplomatic ties and bureaucratic processes.

Indian officials have expressed concern over the incident and have urged Pakistan to expedite the return of all detained Indian fishermen.

Makwana’s family in Gujarat has appealed to the Indian government to ensure that his body is brought back home at the earliest.