SUPPORTERS of deaf charity worker Ian Stillman are being urged to take part in a mass rally demanding his freedom.

Campaigner David Buxton, of Christian Deaf Link, is organising a protest outside the Indian High Commission.

He is hoping at least 150 people will take part.

Ian, 52, whose parents live in Tadcaster Road, York, is serving a ten-year prison sentence in India after being convicted of cannabis possession - a charge he has always denied.

David said: "I think the visual impact of many deaf people staging a protest together would be good for press coverage and would remind the authorities, both Indian and British, that there is serious concern about him."

Christian Deaf Link aims to highlight the deaf rights aspect of Ian's case.

He was denied a sign language translator during his trial, effectively excluding him from taking any part, and appeal judges have refused to believe he is deaf, despite medical evidence proving it.

The Supreme Court judge shocked deaf campaigners by saying the hearing impaired are known to be used for drug smuggling in India.

The Evening Press has been campaigning for the release of Ian, who also had a leg amputated following a road accident and is diabetic.

The protest takes place on October 25 at 2pm.

Updated: 11:14 Friday, October 11, 2002