Gujarat fishermen launch agitation to protest capture by Pakistan

Porbandar, Mar 2 (UNI) Gujarat fishermen launched a ten-day state-wide strike to protest against the capture of Indian anglers and their boats by the Pakistan Marine Security Agency (PMSA).

The strike call was given by the All Gujarat Fishermen Associaion (AGFA) yesterday.

Porbandar Fishermen Association president Jivanbhai Jungi told UNI over phone their main demand was that India should take a firm stand on the capture of fishermen by PMSA and endeavour for their release at the earliest.

Mr Jungi said PMSA has captured 495 Indian fishermen and seized 286 fishing boats.

The Association representatives had visited Delhi on February 23 and submitted a memorandum to the Central Government in this regard, Mr Jungi said.

The association tried to secure an appointment with the Prime Minister on February 27 but could not get the appointment, he said.

a memorandum was submitted to the district collector here, Mr Jungi said.

The fishermen staged a ''dharna'', at all ports today and stayed away from venturing into the high sea, he said. The fishermen have decided to intensify their stir and have called for a ''Porbandar bandh'' tomorrow, he said. Besides, all loading and unloading operations in all ports would be halted on March 6, he added.

The fishermen from Saurashtra coast, to express their solidarity, have anchored their boats on the shores.

About 3000 fishermen from Porbandar, Okha, Veraval and Mangrol in the Saurashtra region are supporting the strike, Mr Jungi said.

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