New Delhi: India has said that 167 Indian fishermen and civil prisoners remain in Pakistan’s custody despite having completed their sentences, calling for their early release and repatriation. The issue came into focus as India and Pakistan exchanged updated lists of civilian prisoners and fishermen held in each other’s custody under the bilateral Agreement on Consular Access signed in 2008.
According to the details shared, India provided Pakistan with information on 391 civil prisoners and 33 fishermen in Indian custody who are Pakistani or believed to be Pakistani nationals. In return, Pakistan shared details of 58 civil prisoners and 199 fishermen who are Indian or believed to be Indian and currently held in its prisons.
The government reiterated its demand for the prompt release and return of Indian nationals, including fishermen along with their boats. It also urged Pakistan to expedite the repatriation of 167 Indian fishermen and civil prisoners who have already served their full terms. India further raised concerns over delayed consular access and sought immediate access to 35 Indian or believed to be Indian prisoners who have not yet been granted such assistance.
New Delhi also called on Islamabad to ensure the safety, security and welfare of all Indian and believed to be Indian prisoners and fishermen while they await release and return. The issue of humanitarian treatment and timely consular support remains a recurring concern in bilateral exchanges on prisoners.
The government highlighted that sustained diplomatic efforts over the years have led to the repatriation of a large number of Indian nationals from Pakistan. Since 2014, a total of 2,661 Indian fishermen and 71 civil prisoners have been brought back to India. This includes 500 fishermen and 13 civil prisoners repatriated since 2023.
The exchange of prisoner lists is a routine confidence building measure between the two countries and takes place twice a year, on January 1 and July 1. The mechanism is intended to help identify prisoners, ensure consular access and facilitate their eventual release and repatriation.
India has maintained that humanitarian considerations should guide the handling of civilian prisoners and fishermen, particularly those who have completed their sentences, and has stressed the need for timely cooperation to resolve such cases.
