ISLAMABAD: A parliamentary body is expected to get a briefing from the Ministry of Human Rights on the boat tragedy on Greek shores that resulted in the death of nearly 300 Pakistanis.

The committee will also discuss amendments to the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) bill which so far has failed to achieve any desired result.

The human rights secretary is expected to brief the National Assembly Standing Committee on Human Rights, on how at least 600 migrants — out of possibly 750 — on the fishing boat that set off from Libya towards European shores, may have perished when their vessel capsized in the Mediterranean last month.

The details were still sketchy but the passengers largely comprised Pakistanis, Afghans, Egyptians, Palestinians and Syrians migrating in the overloaded boat.

Up to 300 Pakistanis were feared to have drowned. It was a recurring tragedy — with no end in sight as economic, political and climate crises compelled increasingly large numbers of people to flee their homes.

The tragedy of such immense proportions was believed to have taken place in the presence of maritime authorities. It was also believed that Pakistani nationals were forced to stay below the deck by the crew, which maltreated them during the journey.