In a humanitarian move, 48 Pakistani fishermen and 19 Pakistani civilian prisoners were repatriated to Pakistan today through the Attari-Wagah border. All individuals had completed their respective sentences in Indian jails and were handed over to Pakistani authorities after necessary formalities.
The repatriation comes as part of ongoing efforts between India and Pakistan to address humanitarian issues linked to cross-border detentions, particularly those involving fishermen and civilians who inadvertently cross maritime or land borders.
According to official sources, the repatriated individuals had been incarcerated in various Indian prisons and were released upon completion of their legal sentences. Their return was coordinated through diplomatic and border security channels to ensure a smooth and secure transfer.
The Government of India reiterated its commitment to addressing the issue of Indian prisoners held in Pakistani custody. In an official statement, the Ministry of External Affairs noted that the Indian Government attaches “high priority” to securing the release and repatriation of Indian fishermen and civilian prisoners detained in Pakistan.
“The Government of India has urged the Government of Pakistan to expedite the release and repatriation of all Indian prisoners, including fishermen, who remain in Pakistan’s custody,” the statement read.
India and Pakistan have long dealt with the recurring issue of fishermen from both countries being detained after straying across the unmarked maritime boundary in the Arabian Sea. Poor navigation tools and lack of awareness among fishermen often lead to such inadvertent crossings, resulting in arrest and imprisonment.
Both nations maintain a system of periodic exchange of lists of prisoners in each other’s custody, under a bilateral agreement signed in 2008.
The latest repatriation is part of that broader framework aimed at improving humanitarian cooperation despite tense diplomatic relations.
The Indian Government continues to press for the early release of Indian nationals still detained in Pakistan, and similar repatriation efforts are expected in the future.