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A wave of grief has swept through East Midnapore’s Paikbar village after the family of fisherman Swapan Rana received the news of his death in a Pakistani prison. Swapan, who had been imprisoned for accidentally crossing into Pakistani waters while fishing, had spent nearly two years in custody.

According to family members, Swapan had left for Gujarat two years ago to work on a fishing trawler. During one of the fishing trips, the trawler allegedly drifted across the maritime boundary into Pakistani territory. The Pakistan authorities arrested seven people on board—including Swapan.

Though a list sent by Pakistan to the Indian government reportedly mentioned Swapan’s name, the family says no concrete update was provided afterward. The sudden announcement of his death came as a shock. On Friday, administrative officials informed the family that Swapan had died in prison, though the exact cause remains unknown.

His wife Tuturani broke down after hearing the news, while neighbours described Swapan as a “hardworking and calm man” whose sudden death in custody raised many doubts. The family says they still have no information about his treatment, safety, or the circumstances leading to his death.

 

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District officials have confirmed the situation and stated that efforts are underway to repatriate Swapan’s body through diplomatic channels. Coordination with the Home Ministry is ongoing to ensure the body returns to India at the earliest.

Standing in support, Amin Sohel, Chairman of the East Midnapore District Fishermen’s Development Association, visited the grieving family. He assured them of all possible help from the administration and the government.

“As a representative of the fishermen, I am committed to supporting Swapan’s family. All efforts are being made on behalf of the government,” Amin said. “On December 3, his family will accompany the administration, and the body is expected to be brought back on December 4.” The incident has sparked fresh concerns over the safety of Indian fishermen working near international waters and the diplomatic processes involved in bringing detained citizens back home.

 

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