Over 10,000 Indians are imprisoned internationally, with the largest number in Saudi Arabia. The Indian government reported 2,633 nationals in Saudi jails, and a total of 10,152 globally. Various countries have imposed capital punishment on Indians, with the UAE having the highest death sentences.
As of the latest report, there are a total of 10,152 Indians currently imprisoned abroad, with the highest concentration in Saudi Arabia, totaling 2,633 individuals. This information was presented by Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh during a session in the Rajya Sabha. The report highlights the situations of Indian nationals either under trial or convicted in various countries.
The breakdown of Indian prisoners in foreign jails is as follows: 1,317 in Nepal; 266 in Pakistan; 611 in Qatar; 288 in the United Kingdom; 169 in the United States; 173 in China; 181 in Bahrain; 168 in Italy; 387 in Kuwait; 338 in Malaysia; and 98 in Sri Lanka. These figures illustrate the considerable number of Indians facing legal challenges overseas.
Over the past five years (2020-2024), several Indian citizens have been subjected to capital punishment. Kuwait recorded 26 executions, with Saudi Arabia following at nine. Other countries include Zimbabwe with seven and Malaysia with five. The UAE holds the highest number of Indian nationals sentenced to death, totaling 25.
Several notable cases include the recent execution of Shehzadi, an Indian national from Uttar Pradesh, for the murder of a child. The recorded deaths of Indians due to capital punishment abroad include 11 in Saudi Arabia, six in Malaysia, and three in Kuwait. Additionally, individuals from India have received death sentences in Indonesia, Qatar, the United States, and Yemen, though implementation of these sentences remains pending.
The government has noted that many foreign jurisdictions adhere to strict privacy laws, making it difficult for local authorities to disclose information about prisoners without consent from the individuals involved. Even countries that do provide some level of information tend to offer limited details regarding foreign nationals serving sentences.
Officials have emphasized their prioritization of the safety and security of Indian citizens abroad, which includes those currently incarcerated in foreign prisons, reiterating their commitment to addressing concerns related to the wellbeing of these individuals.
The report reveals a concerning number of Indian nationals imprisoned abroad, notably in Saudi Arabia, and underscores the complexities surrounding legal issues faced by these individuals. It highlights the significant numbers facing capital punishment in multiple nations, with respect to privacy laws complicating information access. The Indian government remains dedicated to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of its citizens imprisoned overseas.
Original Source: www.tribuneindia.com
