10,152 Indians Imprisoned Globally, Government Informs Parliament

The Indian government reported that 10,152 citizens are imprisoned in 86 nations, primarily in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Nepal. This includes over 2,600 individuals on trial, 54 on death row, and 307 fishermen detained abroad. The government emphasizes their commitment to providing support and assistance to these individuals.

According to information presented to the Indian Parliament, a total of 10,152 Indian nationals are incarcerated in 86 countries. The largest population of these prisoners is in Saudi Arabia, totaling 2,633 individuals, followed by the United Arab Emirates with 2,518, and Nepal with 1,317. The figure also includes 2,684 Indians who are undergoing trials in foreign jurisdictions.

Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh disclosed the statistics in response to a query raised by Rajya Sabha member Saket Gokhale. Additional significant numbers of Indian prisoners were reported in Qatar (611), Kuwait (387), Malaysia (338), the United Kingdom (288), Pakistan (266), Bahrain (181), China (173), the United States (169), Italy (168), and Oman (148).

Saudi Arabia was noted to have the highest count of under-trial Indian prisoners at 1,226. The under-trial populations in other nations include 294 in the UAE, 144 in Bahrain, 123 in Qatar, and 121 in Malaysia. Singh also highlighted that 54 Indian citizens are currently on death row, particularly in the UAE (29) and Saudi Arabia (12).

In his address to Parliament, Singh assured that Indian diplomatic missions extend comprehensive support to Indian nationals sentenced abroad. This assistance encompasses consular access, regular jail visits, case tracking with local authorities, and advice on legal recourse such as appeals and mercy petitions.

Additionally, Singh responded to inquiries about Indian fishermen, stating that 307 are presently detained overseas, with the majority in Pakistan (217), followed by Sri Lanka (58) and Saudi Arabia (28). The Indian government prioritizes the welfare and security of these fishermen and seeks their release through diplomatic engagements.

Efforts for repatriation of Indian fishermen are consistently communicated to foreign governments, emphasizing humanitarian concerns. Regular assessments of their conditions are conducted, and Indian officials provide necessary legal support and travel documentation to facilitate their return.

The report reveals that 10,152 Indian nationals are imprisoned globally, predominantly in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Nepal. A significant number are facing trials abroad, while 54 individuals are on death row. The Indian government remains committed to assisting its citizens with various forms of support, particularly Indian fishermen who continue to face challenges while detained in foreign countries.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com