Annual exchange highlights ongoing efforts to address humanitarian concerns
India and Pakistan exchanged lists of civilian prisoners and fishermen held in each other’s custody today via diplomatic channels in New Delhi and Islamabad
Both nations call for expedited release and repatriation of prisoners and fishermen
The exchange is conducted under the Agreement on Consular Access 2008, mandating such exchanges on January 1 and July 1 each year. India provided details of 381 civilian prisoners and 81 fishermen in its custody who are Pakistani or believed to be Pakistani. In return, Pakistan shared details of 49 civilian prisoners and 217 fishermen who are Indian or believed to be Indian.
India has urged Pakistan to ensure the immediate release and repatriation of 183 Indian prisoners and fishermen who have completed their sentences.
Additionally, India has called for consular access for 18 individuals believed to be Indian who remain without such access. Pakistan has also been requested to expedite the nationality verification of 76 prisoners in Indian custody awaiting repatriation.
Since 2014, India’s efforts have led to the repatriation of 2,639 Indian fishermen and 71 civilian prisoners, including 478 fishermen and 13 civilian prisoners since 2023. Both nations reiterated their commitment to resolving humanitarian matters, emphasizing the safety and welfare of all detainees pending their release
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