NewKerala.com

Key Points

A comprehensive report reveals the challenging global landscape for Indian citizens imprisoned abroad. The United Arab Emirates leads with the highest number of Indian inmates, followed closely by Saudi Arabia and Nepal. Out of the total 10,574 imprisoned Indians, 43 are currently facing death penalties in various countries. The Indian government is actively working to provide legal support, consular access, and explore opportunities for repatriation through diplomatic channels.

Key Points: Indians Abroad 10,574 Prisoners Worldwide 43 on Death Row

  • Over 10,500 Indians imprisoned globally
  • UAE hosts highest number of Indian prisoners at 2,773
  • 43 Indian nationals currently facing death penalty
  • Government providing legal and consular support through missions
2 min read

Over 10,500 Indians imprisoned abroad, 43 on death row

Shocking global data reveals Indian prisoners count with UAE, Saudi Arabia topping list and 43 facing death penalty across multiple countries

"Indian missions closely monitor such cases and extend full legal and consular support - MEA Official"

New Delhi, July 25

A staggering 10,574 Indian citizens are currently imprisoned in jails across the globe, including 43 of them languishing on the death row, the Parliament was informed on Friday.

Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh, in a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha, noted that the largest number of Indian prisoners has been recorded in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where 2,773 Indian nationals are currently behind bars.

This is followed by Saudi Arabia with 2,379 inmates and Nepal with 1,357. Other countries with a significant number of Indian prisoners include Qatar with 795, Malaysia with 380, Kuwait with 342, the United Kingdom with 323, Bahrain with 261, Pakistan with 246, China with 183 and others.

On the other end of the spectrum, several countries have only one Indian prisoner each, including Angola, Belgium, Canada, Chile, Egypt, Iraq, Jamaica, Mauritius, Senegal, Seychelles, South Africa, Sudan, Tajikistan, and Yemen.

Out of the 10,574 total, 43 Indian nationals are currently facing the death penalty in various countries. The highest number - 21 - are in the UAE, followed by Saudi Arabia (7), China (4), Indonesia (3), and Kuwait (2). One Indian is on death row in the USA, Malaysia, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, and Yemen.

The ministry clarified that due to stringent privacy laws in many countries, comprehensive details on imprisoned foreign nationals are not always available unless the individuals consent to disclosure. In response to the growing concern, the government has emphasised that Indian missions and consulates abroad closely monitor such cases and extend full legal and consular support.

Legal aid, consular access, and efforts toward early release or repatriation are undertaken through bilateral talks, judicial interventions, and, when needed, appeals for amnesty. Additionally, the Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF) is being utilised to provide financial and legal aid in deserving cases, particularly to assist with legal representation and repatriation costs.

The government also confirmed that it is actively engaging with Sri Lanka for the release of 28 Indian fishermen--27 from Tamil Nadu and one from Puducherry--currently held in Sri Lankan custody.

As India continues to engage globally, the safety and legal protection of its diaspora remain a growing priority for diplomatic missions abroad.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
While the numbers are concerning, we must also acknowledge that many Indians abroad knowingly break local laws. I've seen cases where people smuggle gold or drugs into Middle East countries despite knowing the strict penalties. Prevention is better than cure - we need better awareness campaigns.
P
Priyanka N
The fishermen issue with Sri Lanka keeps repeating every few months! Our fishermen go there for better catch but get arrested. Government should find a permanent solution through proper maritime boundary agreements. These poor men have families waiting back home 😢
A
Aman W
Before traveling abroad, every Indian should be given mandatory training about local laws. Many get trapped because they don't know what's illegal there. For example, in UAE even a small fight can land you in jail. Our embassies should conduct workshops!
K
Kavya N
The 43 on death row is terrifying! While we must help them, we should also ask why so many Indians end up in such serious crimes abroad. Is it desperation or greed? Either way, we need better job opportunities here so people don't have to risk everything going abroad.
M
Michael C
Respectfully, while the government is doing its part, we must acknowledge that foreign countries have every right to enforce their laws. The focus should be on educating Indians about respecting host country laws rather than always blaming foreign governments.
D
Divya L

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50