Islamabad: Pakistan has officially demanded the release of 38 of its nationals imprisoned in Indian jails for 59 years. According to a spokesperson from the Foreign Office, Pakistan has included these personnel in the list of prisoners provided to India.
The government is taking this step as part of its continuous efforts to get its citizens freed from custody where she has stayed for decades.
It is believed that these people are soldiers who disappeared during the wars of 1965 and 1971. Both Pakistani and Indian conflicts resulted in several military and civilian men being captured or going missing. These missing individuals are thought to have been held by India since those conflicts. For many years, the issue of such long-term prisoners has caused tension between both nations.
On July 1 every year, Pakistan and India exchange lists containing names of detainees in each other’s prisons. This annual exchange occurs under the Consular Access Agreement (CAA) signed in 2008, which mandates both countries to share current information on their detained persons. Based on this latest round, there are currently four hundred fifty-two Pakistanis serving jail terms in India. At the same time, India released a list of 254 individuals of interest, including fishermen currently detained inside Pakistani borders. It is via diplomatic channels that this practice remains alive despite broader geopolitical tensions.
Over time, Pakistan has always tried to raise awareness about its citizens locked up in Indian jails. Several diplomatic processes have actively sought to secure their freedom, emphasizing human rights. And justice for those detained without charges for extended periods.
These past years and efforts have produced a few results. In 2023, Pakistan repatriated 62 prisoners from Indian prisons. This year, they have sent an additional four people back home. Though these actions were positive, many people’s futures are still unknown. The government of Pakistan has affirmed its commitment to continue making such efforts until all its citizens are safe once more.
The spokesperson also stressed the need to deal with prisoners in both countries comprehensively and humanely. Diplomatic relations among nations cannot disregard the dignity and rights of persons in custody, regardless of their ongoing tension. Under the Consular Access Agreement (CAA), these conversations ensure prompt addressing of these issues through reconciliation.
The Pakistani government has not changed its mind about ensuring that all the people. Those imprisoned in Indian prisons return home. The annual swapping of prisoners’ names and the ongoing diplomatic engagements continue to emphasize the urgency required around this humanitarian issue. This commitment aims to take care of those Pakistanis held captive in other countries as well as promote justice and human rights. And international teamwork.
