As reported by the government, more than 10,000 Indians are imprisoned abroad, with Saudi Arabia and the UAE holding the majority. The Ministry of External Affairs prioritizes the welfare of Indian nationals, offering legal aid and support, especially for those on death row. In total, 49 individuals face death sentences in various countries, with ongoing efforts for their repatriation and rights protection.
As of now, over 10,000 Indians are incarcerated in foreign prisons, with 49 on death row, as reported by the government to the Rajya Sabha. The majority are imprisoned in Saudi Arabia, totaling 2,633, followed closely by 2,518 in the United Arab Emirates. The government has emphasized its commitment to ensuring the safety and welfare of Indian nationals abroad, especially those facing legal issues.
Data reveals Nepal ranks third for the number of Indians detained, accounting for 1,317. Other notable countries holding Indian nationals include Qatar (611), Kuwait (387), Malaysia (338), Pakistan (266), China (173), the United States (169), Oman (148), and both Russia and Myanmar with 27 each. This distribution highlights the widespread nature of the issue across various regions.
Since 2020, 25 Indians have been executed or sentenced to death in Kuwait, more than any other nation. Saudi Arabia follows with nine cases, while other countries such as Zimbabwe, Malaysia, and Jamaica have recorded fewer executions. The UAE has not publicized execution numbers during this period but reported no executions of Indians from 2020 to 2024, though three were executed in February of this year.
Among the 49 individuals sentenced to death awaiting execution, 25 are located in the UAE, 11 in Saudi Arabia, six in Malaysia, and three in Kuwait. Additional nationals on death row include one individual each in Indonesia, Qatar, the United States, and Yemen. The Ministry of External Affairs pursues the repatriation of Indian prisoners diligently with local authorities.
The government asserts that Indian prisoners receive support, including consular access and legal assistance, aiming to facilitate the exploration of legal remedies such as appeals and mercy petitions. These measures represent the government’s efforts to safeguard the interests of its citizens detained abroad.
In conclusion, the plight of over 10,000 Indians in foreign jails raises significant concerns, particularly regarding the 49 individuals sentenced to death. The government’s measures highlight a commitment to protecting Indian nationals, ensuring their legal rights are upheld while fostering diplomatic engagement with host nations. A sustained focus on repatriation and legal assistance remains critical in addressing this humanitarian issue.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
