India and Pakistan engaged in a significant diplomatic exercise today by exchanging lists of civilian prisoners and fishermen held in each other’s custody. This biannual process occurs in accordance with the 2008 bilateral Agreement on Consular Access, which stipulates that such exchanges take place on January 1 and July 1 each year.
In this latest exchange, India provided a comprehensive list including 382 civilian prisoners and 81 fishermen, whom it either holds or believes to be of Pakistani origin. In reciprocation, Pakistan shared information about 45 civilian prisoners and 193 fishermen who are either Indian or believed to be Indian nationals currently under its jurisdiction.
The Indian Government has made a strong appeal for the prompt release and repatriation of its civilian prisoners and fishermen, along with their boats. This request is particularly focused on 159 Indian fishermen and civilian prisoners who have already completed their respective sentences in Pakistan. Additionally, India has urged Pakistan to grant immediate consular access to 26 individuals who are believed to be Indian nationals but have yet to receive such access.
Reinforcing its humanitarian stance, India also urged Pakistan to guarantee the safety and welfare of all Indian nationals, as well as those believed to be Indian, who are in Pakistani custody while awaiting their return.
India expressed its ongoing commitment to resolving humanitarian issues, particularly those associated with prisoners and fishermen held in both countries, emphasizing the need for priority in addressing these matters. In line with these efforts, India has requested Pakistan to expedite nationality verification for 80 individuals believed to be Pakistani prisoners and fishermen currently in Indian custody, as their repatriation is stalled due to a lack of confirmation regarding their citizenship status.
Since 2014, India’s sustained diplomatic endeavors have facilitated the return of 2,661 Indian fishermen and 71 Indian civilian prisoners from Pakistan. Notably, this year alone has seen the repatriation of 500 fishermen and 13 civilian prisoners. This consistent engagement highlights the importance of humanitarian concerns in bilateral relations between the two nations.
