Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Mar 20: The Indian government informed Parliament on Thursday that 25 Indian nationals in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and 11 in Saudi Arabia have been sentenced to death, though the sentences have yet to be carried out.
In response to a question in the Rajya Sabha about Indians imprisoned in foreign countries, Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh shared that, according to "informal information" from Indian Missions abroad, no Indian has been executed in the UAE between 2020 and 2024.
Currently, 10,152 Indian nationals, including undertrials, are reported to be in foreign prisons. Singh explained that the government faces challenges in obtaining detailed information on prisoners in some countries due to strict privacy laws that require the consent of the individual before sharing information.
The minister assured that the government prioritizes the safety and welfare of Indian nationals in foreign jails, and Indian Missions abroad work closely with local authorities to ensure the well-being of those detained. Once informed of an Indian national’s arrest or detention, Indian Missions immediately contact the relevant foreign authorities to secure consular access, confirm the person’s nationality, and assess the facts of the case.
Singh further revealed that, in 2024, seven Indian nationals were either executed or given capital punishment in foreign countries. Of these, three were in Kuwait, three in Saudi Arabia, and one in Zimbabwe.
Additionally, several Indians have been sentenced to death but are awaiting the execution of their sentences. This includes 25 individuals in the UAE, 11 in Saudi Arabia, six in Malaysia, three in Kuwait, and one each in Indonesia, Qatar, the USA, and Yemen.
The Indian government, through its Missions abroad, continues to provide legal support to Indian nationals facing death sentences, including consular access, assistance with appeals, and mercy petitions. The government also works with foreign authorities to explore avenues for the release or repatriation of prisoners, as well as the commutation or reduction of sentences.
India has signed prisoner transfer treaties with various countries to allow convicted individuals to serve their sentences in India. Additionally, the Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF) is available to assist Indian nationals in distress, providing financial support for legal aid, travel documents, and repatriation.
Singh concluded by emphasizing the government’s continued efforts to support Indian nationals imprisoned abroad through various channels, including during high-level diplomatic visits.