In instances of business failures, it is Indians who bear the brunt, grappling with loans that they are unable to repay
Over 500 Indian expatriates, primarily from Kerala and other southern states, are currently imprisoned in Qatar due to financial crimes.
Although regulations state that Indians can engage in business partnerships with Qataris on a 49:51 ratio, the practical responsibility often falls disproportionately on Indians.
In instances of business failures, it is Indians who bear the brunt, grappling with loans that they are unable to repay, according to reports by thehindu.com.
This situation has left many feeling abandoned by the Indian government. An example is found in Kozhikode’s Pavangad village, where Anusmrithi Arun’s husband, K. Arun, involved in a trading company, has been incarcerated for over four years due to a bounced cheque case, shortly after their 2019 marriage. Anusmrithi stated, “Since then we have been knocking on every door to secure his release.”
R.J. Sajith, the president of the Indian Pravasi Movement, has initiated the ‘Breaking Handcuffs’ movement to raise funds for the release of these prisoners.
Collaborating with prominent NRI businessmen, investors, and humanitarians, Sajith aims to expedite their release by covering fines.
He estimates that around ₹200 crore will be required to secure the freedom of the 473 identified prisoners. Interestingly, Sajith himself spent a decade in prison for an alleged economic offense before being released after a prolonged legal battle.
As per recent figures from the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the majority of Indians imprisoned abroad for economic offenses are in Gulf countries. The UAE holds the highest number with 1,611 prisoners, followed by Saudi Arabia with 1,461, and Qatar with 696, including those arrested for other offenses.
The situation in Qatar grew more complicated when the economic crisis within the Gulf Cooperation Council, backed by the US, impacted a significant number of Indian investors in 2017.
While Qatar made some general improvements after the economic blockade was lifted three years later, entrepreneurs have yet to fully recover from the financial crisis, as noted by Prajeesh Thiruthiyil, president of the Indian-Qatar Entrepreneurs Action Council.
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India’s Ministry of External Affairs, alongside its Missions/Posts abroad, remains steadfast in its commitment to the well-being of Indian nationals imprisoned abroad
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Their proactive approach to securing consular access, providing legal aid, and advocating for release underscores the government’s dedication to safeguarding its citizens’ rights abroad
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), in partnership with Indian Missions/Posts abroad, is dedicated to safeguarding the rights and well-being of Indians imprisoned overseas. Once an Indian national is detained or arrested abroad, Indian Missions/Posts take swift action, engaging with local authorities to secure consular access. This access confirms the individual’s Indian nationality, ensures their welfare, and gathers facts about their case.
These Missions and Posts take extensive measures to protect the rights of Indian prisoners, offering legal aid through a panel of local lawyers and financial assistance under the Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF). This aid covers legal assistance, travel documents, and airfare during repatriation.
The MEA collaborates with Missions/Posts abroad to actively advocate for the release and repatriation of Indian nationals imprisoned in foreign countries. They work closely with local authorities to expedite investigations and legal proceedings, ensuring a fair process for Indian prisoners. Additionally, efforts are made to secure amnesties and sentence reductions where applicable.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs, alongside its Missions/Posts abroad, remains steadfast in its commitment to the well-being of Indian nationals imprisoned abroad. Their proactive approach to securing consular access, providing legal aid, and advocating for release underscores the government’s dedication to safeguarding its citizens’ rights abroad.
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