India, Pakistan Exchange Lists of Civil Prisoners and Fishermen Under 2008 Consular Agreement

In an official statement, the Ministry of External Affairs said India shared the names of 386 civil prisoners and 53 fishermen in its custody who are Pakistani nationals or are believed to be Pakistani. In return, Pakistan shared the lists of 52 civil prisoners and 198 fishermen in its custody who are Indian nationals or are believed to be Indian.

India reiterated its consistent demand for the early release and repatriation of all civil prisoners, fishermen along with their boats, and missing Indian defence personnel believed to be in Pakistan's custody. The Government also urged Pakistan to expedite the release and repatriation of 188 Indian fishermen and civil prisoners who have already completed their sentences.

The Ministry further called upon Pakistan to provide immediate consular access to 13 civil prisoners in its custody who are believed to be Indian and have not yet been granted such access. India also urged the Pakistani authorities to ensure the safety, security, and welfare of all Indian and believed-to-be-Indian prisoners until their release and repatriation.

The Ministry highlighted that sustained diplomatic efforts by India have led to the repatriation of 2,661 Indian fishermen and 78 Indian civil prisoners from Pakistan since 2014. Of these, 500 Indian fishermen and 20 Indian civil prisoners have been repatriated since 2023.

The latest exchange of prisoner lists underscores the continued implementation of the 2008 Agreement on Consular Access despite broader bilateral challenges. India has maintained its emphasis on humanitarian concerns by seeking the timely release, consular access, and safe return of its citizens held in Pakistan's custody.