Local Fishermen Not Involved in Illegal Fishing, Says MPA Maulana Hidayat ur Rehman Baloch

**Quetta (Qudrat Roznama):** Ameer Jamaat-e-Islami Balochistan and Member of the Provincial Assembly **Maulana Hidayat ur Rehman Baloch** has expressed serious concern over ongoing **illegal fishing and circling (gut) practices** in coastal areas, saying that **local fishermen are not involved** in these unlawful activities.

Speaking during a meeting with a fishermen’s delegation in **Gwadar Pasni** and while addressing a gathering, Maulana Hidayat ur Rehman said that **non-local fishermen are being facilitated and imposed on coastal communities**, while local fishermen are being unfairly blamed. He said illegal fishing through **non-local boats using banned methods** is rapidly depleting marine resources and severely affecting the livelihoods of local fishermen.

He termed **circling (gut)** fishing a clear violation of laws and regulations, stating that fish are being indiscriminately harvested through these prohibited methods. He alleged that such activities are not possible without the **collusion of the Fisheries Department**, noting that despite repeated complaints to the **Minister for Fisheries, Secretary Fisheries, and Director General Fisheries**, no effective action has been taken.

The Jamaat-e-Islami leader emphasized that **local fishermen operate within the law** and are themselves opposed to illegal fishing, but influential elements are giving free rein to non-local groups, increasing unrest among the local population.

Maulana Hidayat ur Rehman Baloch demanded an **immediate and strict crackdown** against illegal fishing and circling practices, action against **non-local illegal operators**, and a **transparent inquiry into the performance of the Fisheries Department**. He warned that if the situation is not controlled, he will, along with local fishermen, adopt a **protest strategy**.