Currently, 10,152 Indian nationals are imprisoned in 86 countries, mainly in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Nepal. The government provides assistance, including legal support, to those facing trials and death sentences. Additionally, 307 Indian fishermen are detained abroad, and efforts for their timely release are ongoing.
As of now, a total of 10,152 Indian nationals are incarcerated in 86 countries worldwide, with the majority located in Saudi Arabia (2,633), the United Arab Emirates (2,518), and Nepal (1,317). This data was revealed by the government during a parliamentary session on Thursday. Among these, there are 2,684 Indians currently facing trials in foreign judicial systems, as reported by Kirti Vardhan Singh, the Minister of State for External Affairs.
The provision includes 1,226 under-trial Indian prisoners in Saudi Arabia, highlighting the significant presence of Indians in foreign jails. Other countries with sizeable Indian prison populations are Qatar (611), Kuwait (387), Malaysia (338), the UK (288), Pakistan (266), Bahrain (181), China (173), the US (169), Italy (168), and Oman (148). Notably, Saudi Arabia leads in the number of under-trial prisoners as well.
Moreover, Singh noted that 54 Indian citizens have received death sentences abroad, with the UAE (29) and Saudi Arabia (12) accounting for the largest proportions. Indian missions are committed to offering comprehensive support to incarcerated Indians, ensuring they receive consular access and assistance with their legal matters.
The government also monitors the situation of Indian fishermen detained abroad, which currently numbers 307, primarily in Pakistan (217) and Sri Lanka (58). In 2024, several countries released Indian fishermen, including Sri Lanka (479) and Bangladesh (95). The government’s high priority on the safety and welfare of these individuals ensures rigorous diplomatic efforts to facilitate their early release and repatriation.
Regular visits by Indian officials to detention facilities help assess conditions for Indian fishermen and provide necessary aid, including legal support and travel documents for repatriation. The Indian government emphasizes addressing the humanitarian aspects of these detentions with foreign governments through established diplomatic channels.
The Indian government reports that 10,152 nationals are imprisoned globally, with the highest numbers in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Nepal. They provide consular support and legal assistance to those facing trials and death sentences. Additionally, the plight of detained fishermen is prioritized, ensuring diplomatic efforts for their release and welfare.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
