India, Pakistan exchange prisoner lists; New Delhi seeks expediated release of 188 citizens
The exchange of information took place simultaneously through diplomatic channels in New Delhi and Islamabad on July 1, in accordance with the agreement that requires both countries to share such information on January 1 and July 1 every year.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs, New Delhi provided Islamabad with details of 439 people, including 386 civilian prisoners and 53 fishermen, believed to be Pakistani citizens or Pakistanis.
“India shared the list of 386 civilian prisoners and 53 fishermen who were Pakistani or believed to be Pakistani. Similarly, Pakistan shared the list of 52 civilian prisoners and 198 fishermen who were believed to be Indian or Indian,” the foreign ministry said in a press release. he said.
Pakistan, on the other hand, shared the names of 250 people, including 52 civilian prisoners and 198 fishermen who are Indian citizens or believed to be Indian.
In addition to the list change, India also renewed its call for the early release and repatriation of Indian citizens detained in Pakistan after their legal procedures are completed.
MEA said New Delhi has asked Islamabad to facilitate the return of 188 Indian fishermen and civilian prisoners who have completed their sentences. “Pakistan has been asked to expedite the release and repatriation of 188 Indian fishermen and civilian prisoners who have completed their sentences,” the MEA press release said.
The Centre, led by Prime Minister Modi, also reiterated its demand for immediate consular access to 13 civilian prisoners believed to be Indian citizens, who are yet to be granted permission to meet Indian officials despite repeated requests, according to the MEA.
New Delhi also called on Pakistan to ensure the safety, security and welfare of all Indian and presumed Indian prisoners until their release and return home.
The ministry further said, “As a result of continuous efforts of the Government of India, 2,661 Indian fishermen and 78 Indian civilian prisoners have been repatriated from Pakistan since 2014. These also include 500 Indian fishermen and 20 Indian civilian prisoners repatriated from Pakistan since 2023.”
