Why Are Over 10,500 Indians Imprisoned Abroad?
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Synopsis
Discover the startling statistics of Indian nationals imprisoned worldwide, with a focus on the 43 facing death row. This article reveals where these individuals are located and the Indian government's efforts to provide support and legal aid.
Key Takeaways
- 10,574 Indian nationals are imprisoned worldwide.
- 43 facing death row across several countries.
- UAE has the highest number of Indian prisoners.
- Indian government actively monitors and supports imprisoned nationals.
- Legal aid and financial assistance are provided through ICWF.
New Delhi, July 25 (NationPress) An alarming 10,574 Indian nationals are currently incarcerated in prisons worldwide, with 43 individuals facing the death penalty, as reported to Parliament on Friday.
According to Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh, in response to a Lok Sabha inquiry, the highest concentration of Indian prisoners is in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where 2,773 Indian citizens are detained.
Following closely is Saudi Arabia with 2,379 inmates and Nepal with 1,357. Other nations with notable Indian prisoner populations include Qatar (795), Malaysia (380), Kuwait (342), the United Kingdom (323), Bahrain (261), Pakistan (246), China (183), among others.
Conversely, several countries report only one Indian prisoner, including Angola, Belgium, Canada, Chile, Egypt, Iraq, Jamaica, Mauritius, Senegal, Seychelles, South Africa, Sudan, Tajikistan, and Yemen.
Among the total, 43 Indian nationals find themselves on death row in various countries. The UAE has the most, with 21 cases, followed by Saudi Arabia (7), China (4), Indonesia (3), and Kuwait (2). Additionally, one Indian is facing execution in the USA, Malaysia, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, and Yemen.
The ministry highlighted that due to stringent privacy regulations in various nations, detailed information on imprisoned foreign nationals may not always be accessible unless the individuals provide consent for disclosure. The government reassured that Indian diplomatic missions abroad are vigilant about these matters, offering comprehensive legal and consular support.
Efforts for legal representation, consular access, and initiatives aimed at early release or repatriation are conducted through bilateral discussions, judicial actions, and, when necessary, pleas for amnesty. Furthermore, the Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF) is being utilized to deliver financial and legal aid to those in need, especially for legal representation and repatriation expenses.
The government is also actively collaborating with Sri Lanka to secure the release of 28 Indian fishermen—27 from Tamil Nadu and one from Puducherry—who are currently in Sri Lankan custody.
As India broadens its global engagement, the safety and legal rights of its diaspora remain paramount for diplomatic missions operating overseas.
Point of View
We stand firmly with the Indian government in its commitment to protecting the rights and safety of our citizens abroad. Ensuring legal representation and advocating for the welfare of Indian nationals in foreign prisons is a crucial diplomatic priority.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Indian nationals are imprisoned abroad?
Currently, there are 10,574 Indian citizens imprisoned across various countries.
Which country has the most Indian prisoners?
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has the highest number, with 2,773 Indian nationals in custody.
What is being done for Indians on death row?
The Indian government is actively monitoring these cases, providing legal support, and engaging in diplomatic efforts for their welfare.
Are there countries with only one Indian prisoner?
Yes, several countries, including Angola, Belgium, and Chile, have only one Indian national imprisoned.
What support does the Indian government offer to imprisoned nationals?
The government provides legal aid, consular access, and utilizes the Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF) for financial assistance.
