PROFOUNDLY deaf and disabled Ian Stillman today marked the second anniversary of his arrest in India - as a massive campaign to free him continues.

The 52-year-old charity worker, whose parents live in Tadcaster Road, York, and who suffers from diabetes and has had a leg amputated, was accused of possessing cannabis - a charge he has always denied.

Today, his father Roy remains amazed that his son is in jail.

"We thought there had been a terrible misunderstanding and it would be cleared up straight away, and we were absolutely amazed when they pressed charges," he said. "For us, it feels like more than two years. It feels like a lifetime, and it just goes on and on."

Ian was convicted despite being refused a sign language translator at his arrest and trial. A senior human rights lawyer, Stephen Jakobi of Fair Trials Abroad, has called it the worst miscarriage of justice he has known.

This declaration prompted the Evening Press campaign for Ian's release, and last month, a petition of more than 5,000 signatures was handed in to the House of Commons. His family is also fighting to secure his release.

Mr Stillman said: "The fact that we have something up our sleeves, that we are actually working at doing something and we have the support of so many people does make it easier for us."

This week, Mr Stillman and his wife Monica intend to join other family members in London to mark the anniversary.

They hope to present a petition to the Indian High Commission, aimed at encouraging positive moves in their son's case.

Last week, Indian deputy Prime Minister LK Advani suggested the country's President could be sympathetic to a plea for clemency.

A petition for a presidential pardon was also submitted last week to the Indian Government. If granted, it would clear his name.

"He is a sick man and, if he can get out of prison, then I'm sure he would accept clemency, but that implies that he was guilty and Ian would not want that," said Mr Stillman. "He's been in India for nearly 30 years, his charity work is in India and his family is in India and we are hoping this presidential pardon petition is successful. It would clear his name, while clemency would leave a stain of this crime which he is not guilty of."

"I am ever hopeful that the Indian authorities will see sense, and I am hopeful that this time next year Ian will be free."

Ian and his wife Sue set up a foundation in India working to teach the deaf independence skills.

Updated: 11:50 Wednesday, August 28, 2002