As of recent data, 10,152 Indian nationals are imprisoned in 86 countries, primarily in Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Qatar. The Indian government is actively engaging with local authorities to ensure the welfare of these individuals, providing legal assistance and family communication support, and facilitating prisoner transfers. The situation demonstrates the broader legal challenges faced by Indians abroad.
According to recent data presented by the Ministry of External Affairs in the Lok Sabha, 10,152 Indian nationals, comprising both undertrials and convicted prisoners, are currently detained in 86 countries worldwide. The majority of these individuals are imprisoned in Saudi Arabia (2,633), the United Arab Emirates (2,518), and Qatar (611), indicating a significant concentration of Indian detainees in the Gulf region.
Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, informed that Indian diplomatic missions are actively involved in monitoring the welfare of detained citizens. They provide legal assistance, facilitate family communications, and negotiate for transfers or amnesties when feasible. Notably, following the FIFA World Cup, authorities confirmed there was no unusual spike in arrests in Qatar.
The figures specify that Saudi Arabia holds the largest number of Indian prisoners, followed by the UAE and Qatar. Other countries with sizeable Indian detainee populations include Pakistan (266), Nepal (1,317), Kuwait (387), and Malaysia (338). Additionally, there are 288 Indians in the United Kingdom, 169 in the United States, 173 in China, and 168 in Italy, reflecting a global spectrum of legal challenges faced by Indian expatriates.
The Indian government remains committed to protecting the rights of its citizens imprisoned abroad, utilizing diplomatic channels, consular assistance, and the Indian Community Welfare Fund to provide financial support in emergencies. Furthermore, India has established prisoner transfer treaties with various nations, enabling convicted individuals to serve their sentences in India, though privacy laws in certain jurisdictions, such as Qatar, can restrict case-specific information without the consent of the detainees.
The presence of Indian nationals in foreign jails can be attributed to various legal issues ranging from minor visa violations to serious criminal offences. The Gulf region notably houses a significant number of Indian prisoners due to high expatriate populations and diverse legal environments. The Indian government monitors these situations through its missions worldwide, ensuring support for its citizens while addressing legal challenges on their behalf.
In conclusion, the situation of 10,152 Indian nationals imprisoned across 86 countries highlights the challenges faced by Indian expatriates globally. With a significant number incarcerated in Gulf nations, the Indian government continues to actively support and advocate for their rights through various diplomatic efforts and legal assistance, ensuring their welfare and facilitating repatriation when possible.
Original Source: kashmirlife.net
