- Over 10,152 Indians are imprisoned abroad, with the highest number in the UAE.
- 25 Indians are on death row in the UAE, but no executions have taken place recently.
- The Indian government provides legal aid and diplomatic support to affected nationals.
The alarming number of Indians imprisoned overseas highlights the risks faced by expatriates, particularly in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Malaysia. Many of these individuals are either under trial or have been convicted of crimes, with some even facing death sentences.
While some nations provide transparency regarding executions, others, like the UAE, do not officially disclose data. Informal sources suggest that no Indians have been executed there between 2020 and 2024.
India’s Efforts to Assist Prisoners Abroad
The high number of Indian prisoners abroad underscores the legal and humanitarian issues faced by migrants. The Middle East, with its strict legal frameworks, accounts for the majority of these cases. Many Indian workers move abroad for better opportunities but sometimes find themselves entangled in legal troubles due to a lack of awareness of local laws.
Capital punishment remains a major concern, particularly in countries like Saudi Arabia and Malaysia. While the Indian government has helped mitigate some sentences, several Indian nationals have been executed in recent years. These cases emphasize the need for stronger legal assistance and diplomatic engagement.
Consular access plays a crucial role in providing relief to imprisoned Indians. The Indian missions regularly visit prisoners, liaise with legal representatives, and facilitate communication with families back home. Ensuring fair trials and exploring diplomatic solutions remain top priorities.
There is also a growing demand for preventive measures, such as legal education for migrant workers. Awareness campaigns and pre-departure orientations could help Indians avoid legal issues abroad. Strengthening bilateral agreements for prisoner repatriation is another potential solution that could aid those convicted of minor offenses.
The rising number of Indians in foreign jails calls for a multifaceted approach involving legal aid, diplomatic negotiations, and preventive education. Proactive efforts can help safeguard Indian citizens and reduce such cases in the future.
“A nation’s strength is measured by how it protects its citizens, both at home and abroad.”
