Bhavika Shiyal of Junagadh district today wrote a letter to the UPA chairperson, seeking her help in getting the body of her father, Bhikha Lakha, back home for last rites.
Lakha died in a jail in Karachi on December 19 and his family was informed about this on January 4. Bhavika's mother Devuben passed away two years ago and she is currently staying with her aunt, along with her three-year-old brother Pinak.
"I am approaching Soniaji because she, being a mother, will understand my plight and also that of my three-year-old brother. We have become orphans after the death of my father and mother in a period of just two years," she said.
"I, my aunt and other family members have been eagerly waiting for the arrival of my father's body ever since the sad news of his death was conveyed to us on January 4."
Since then over three weeks have passed but uncertainty still prevails about arrival of his body, said Bhavika, who resides in village Garal of Una taluka.
Bhavika said her father, in his last letter, had stated that he was well and there was no need to worry about him. Also, there was no mention of any disease he was suffering from.
Lakha was among several Indian fishermen captured by Pakistan Marine Security Agency on charge of illegally straying into Pakistani territorial waters in the Arabian sea.
