A report revealed that 10,152 Indians are imprisoned abroad, primarily in Saudi Arabia, where 2,633 Indians are detained. Other notable figures include Nepal and various countries where death sentences are recorded. The government emphasizes protecting its citizens’ rights while facing challenges from privacy regulations.
As of the latest report, there are currently 10,152 Indians incarcerated in foreign jails, with Saudi Arabia being the nation that detains the largest number, totaling 2,633. This information was presented in the Rajya Sabha by the Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh. Other countries with significant Indian prisoner populations include Nepal with 1,317, and several others detailed below.
The distribution of Indian nationals in foreign prisons is as follows: Pakistan has 266, Qatar holds 611, the United Kingdom has 288, the United States has 169, China shows 173, Bahrain 181, Italy 168, Kuwait 387, Malaysia houses 338, and Sri Lanka has 98. This information underscores the varied circumstances impacting Indians abroad.
Within the last five years (2020-2024), specific countries recorded executions or capital punishment sentences for Indian citizens. Kuwait leads with 26 cases, followed by Saudi Arabia with 9, Zimbabwe with 7, Malaysia with 5, and Jamaica with 1. The United Arab Emirates has the highest count of death sentences issued against Indian nationals, totaling 25.
A noteworthy case includes an Indian woman named Shehzadi from Uttar Pradesh, recently executed for the murder of an infant. Reported death sentences awarded to Indian nationals in foreign countries include Saudi Arabia with 11, Malaysia with 6, and Kuwait with 3. Additionally, Indonesia, Qatar, the US, and Yemen have also issued sentences, but implementation is pending.
The Indian government has expressed that due to stringent privacy laws in various countries, local authorities often do not communicate information regarding prisoners without the consent of the individual involved. Even those nations that do share data may not provide extensive details about their imprisoned foreign nationals.
The government has affirmed its commitment to prioritizing the safety, security, and welfare of Indian citizens abroad, emphasizing the importance of ensuring the wellbeing of those incarcerated overseas.
In summary, the plight of Indian nationals in foreign jails is significant, with Saudi Arabia holding the highest number. The government acknowledges the challenges posed by privacy laws in acquiring information about these individuals. Enhanced efforts are being made to safeguard the interests of Indians abroad, particularly those facing serious legal challenges. Awareness of the legal circumstances surrounding Indian citizens in foreign nations is crucial as the government remains dedicated to their wellbeing.
Original Source: www.tribuneindia.com
