Will the Minister of EXTERNAL AFFAIRS be pleased to state:
(a) the details of Indian prisoners in different countries;
(b) whether the Government has taken action for their release; and
(c) if so, the details thereof and the details of action plan of the Government with the counterparts for speedy trials and quick judgement therein?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL AFFAIRS
(SHRI M. J. AKBAR)
(a) Due to the strict provisions of privacy laws, the United States of America, Canada, Australia and many countries in Europe do not share information about Indian nationals in their prisons. However, as per information available, 7448 Indian nationals are lodged in foreign jails in 81 countries.
(b) & (c) As soon as the information about detention/arrest of an Indian national is received by an Indian Mission/Post, it gets in touch with the local Foreign Office and other concerned local authorities to get consular access to the detained/arrested Indian national to confirm his Indian nationality and ensure his/her welfare. Government of India provides legal assistance on means tested basis to deserving Indian nationals, including prisoners. Government also provides help, advice and guidance ensuring fair and humane treatment in foreign jails, repatriation to India of those who are released and issues emergency certificates. In some countries, our Missions also request the local governments for grant of amnesty to the arrested Indians and if any mercy petition for remission of sentences is received from the family members of the Indian prisoners, the concerned Mission forwards them to the local authorities for consideration. A list showing country-wise details of the Indian prisoners is attached at the Annexure.