On Saturday, India and Pakistan engaged in a diplomatic exchange of lists containing information about their respective civilian prisoners and fishermen held in custody. This is a regular process in accordance with the 2008 Agreement on Consular Access, taking place on January 1 and July 1 each year.
India provided a list of 343 civilian prisoners and 74 fishermen believed to be Pakistani, currently under their custody. In return, Pakistan shared a list of 42 civilian prisoners and 266 fishermen believed to be Indian, who are in their custody.
The Indian government has called for the prompt release and repatriation of these civilian prisoners, missing Indian defense personnel, and fishermen, along with their boats, currently held by Pakistan.
Additionally, Pakistan was asked to expedite the release and repatriation of 254 Indian fishermen and four Indian civilian prisoners who have completed their sentences. Moreover, Pakistan needs to grant immediate consular access to the remaining 12 fishermen and 14 civilian prisoners believed to be Indian.
Furthermore, India urged Pakistan to ensure the safety, security, and well-being of all Indian and suspected Indian civilian prisoners and fishermen while they await their release and return to India.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) emphasized India’s commitment to addressing humanitarian matters, especially those related to prisoners and fishermen in each other’s countries.
To address pending repatriation due to lack of nationality confirmation, India requested Pakistan to expedite necessary actions regarding 62 individuals believed to be Pakistani prisoners, including fishermen.
Over the years, the efforts of the Indian government have led to the repatriation of 2559 Indian fishermen and 63 Indian civilian prisoners from Pakistan since 2014. In the current year, 398 Indian fishermen and 05 Indian civilian prisoners have been repatriated from Pakistan so far.
