Over 10,150 Indians are imprisoned abroad, with Saudi Arabia and the UAE holding the majority. The Indian government is focused on monitoring these cases and providing necessary support. There are 49 Indians on death row across various countries, with executions having occurred in Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and elsewhere. The Indian government is actively pursuing the release and repatriation of its citizens.
According to recent statements made in the Rajya Sabha, over 10,150 Indians are currently incarcerated in foreign prisons, with 49 individuals awaiting execution. The countries with the highest number of Indian detainees include Saudi Arabia, with 2,633 inmates, and the United Arab Emirates, housing 2,518 Indians. The Indian government, emphasizing its commitment, actively monitors the situations of its nationals abroad, particularly those imprisoned for alleged legal infringements.
The third-largest population of Indians in foreign jails is found in Nepal, where 1,317 individuals are held. Other notable countries include Qatar (611), Kuwait (387), and Malaysia (338). The data indicates 25 Indians have faced execution in Kuwait since 2020, marking the highest in terms of capital punishment across various nations. Nine executions occurred in Saudi Arabia, followed by several in Zimbabwe, Malaysia, and Jamaica.
The UAE did not confirm any executions but reported one fatality in February involving an Indian nurse and another individual. Among the 49 sentenced to death, 25 are in the UAE, and 11 in Saudi Arabia, along with others in Malaysia and Kuwait. The Indian government persistently advocates for the release and repatriation of these nationals through diplomatic channels and local legal systems, ensuring support through consular services, legal assistance, and avenues for appeal.
In conclusion, there are currently more than 10,000 Indians detained in foreign custody, demonstrating a global challenge for the Indian government. With significant populations of Indian nationals imprisoned in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, the government remains committed to their welfare, providing legal assistance and pursuing repatriation efforts. As the situation evolves, the safety and security of Indian citizens abroad remain a top priority.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
