New Delhi– India on Tuesday urged Pakistan to expedite the release and repatriation of Indian civilian prisoners, including fishermen and missing defense personnel, along with their boats, who remain in Pakistani custody.
The request came as both nations exchanged lists of civilian prisoners and fishermen in each other’s custody through diplomatic channels in New Delhi and Islamabad. These exchanges are part of a bilateral agreement on Consular Access signed in 2008, under which lists are shared every year on January 1 and July 1.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), India has specifically asked Pakistan to immediately release and repatriate 159 Indian fishermen and civilian prisoners who have already completed their sentences.
“In addition, Pakistan has been asked to provide immediate consular access to 26 civilian prisoners and fishermen in its custody who are believed to be Indian nationals but have not yet received consular access,” the MEA stated. “Pakistan has also been requested to ensure the safety, security, and welfare of all Indian and believed-to-be-Indian civilian prisoners and fishermen until their return.”
India has also shared a list of 382 civilian prisoners and 81 fishermen in its custody who are confirmed or believed to be Pakistani nationals. In turn, Pakistan provided details of 53 civilian prisoners and 193 fishermen who are Indian or believed to be Indian.
New Delhi emphasized its commitment to resolving humanitarian matters—particularly those involving prisoners and fishermen—on a priority basis.
“To that end, India has urged Pakistan to expedite the nationality verification process for 80 civilian prisoners and fishermen in Indian custody who are believed to be Pakistani. Their repatriation is pending confirmation of nationality from Pakistan,” the ministry added.
Thanks to sustained diplomatic efforts, India has successfully repatriated 2,661 Indian fishermen and 71 Indian civilian prisoners from Pakistan since 2014. This includes 500 fishermen and 13 civilian prisoners who have returned since the beginning of 2023.
The Indian government, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, maintains that the welfare, safety, and security of Indian prisoners abroad is a top priority. Upon receiving reports of Indian nationals being detained in Pakistan, the Indian High Commission in Islamabad promptly seeks consular access and begins efforts to secure their release.
During consular visits, Indian officials meet with the prisoners to assess their well-being and provide essential supplies. The government also offers all possible support, including legal assistance, to ensure their rights and dignity are protected. (Source: IANS)
