In recent years, the issue of Indian prisoners held in foreign jails has gained attention. A report by a Parliamentary panel brought into light the low success rate in transferring Indian prisoners back to India. As of early 2025, over 10,000 Indian nationals are imprisoned in 86 countries. The report indicates a need for improved diplomatic efforts and reassessment of existing agreements.
Current Statistics of Indian Prisoners
As of February 2025, 10,152 Indian prisoners are detained abroad. This includes under-trials and convicted individuals. The data reveals that only eight prisoners were transferred to India from foreign countries between 2023 and early 2025. This statistic raises concerns about the effectiveness of current transfer agreements.
Transfer of Sentenced Persons Agreements
India has signed 31 bilateral agreements on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons (TSP) with various countries. These agreements allow sentenced individuals to serve their remaining sentences in their home country. Additionally, India is a signatory to two multilateral conventions that facilitate the transfer process. Despite these frameworks, the report notes a dismal rate of prisoner repatriation.
Challenges in Repatriation
The Parliamentary Committee expressed disappointment over the low number of successful transfers. It noted that existing agreements are underutilised. The report calls for a thorough assessment of obstacles hindering effective implementation. It marks the need for enhanced diplomatic negotiations to streamline the repatriation process.
Reintegration of Returned Prisoners
The report also addresses the reintegration of Indian deportees. The responsibility for their reintegration lies with state governments. However, it emphasises the need for robust reintegration programmes by the central government. These programmes should aim to prevent returned individuals from taking dangerous journeys in search of better opportunities.
Voting Rights for NRIs
The Committee expressed concern over the limited political engagement of Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) in India’s electoral process. It advocates for the implementation of the Electronically Transmitted Postal Ballot System (ETPBS) to facilitate voting rights for NRIs. The report urges relevant ministries to pursue this reform vigorously.
Data Collection and Management
The Committee recommends that the Ministry of External Affairs, in collaboration with the Bureau of Immigration, develop mechanisms for real-time data collection on migrants and returnees. This data is essential for understanding the conditions and welfare of Indian citizens abroad.
Future Recommendations
The Committee has called for a comprehensive study of the challenges faced in prisoner repatriation. It suggests that the government amend existing agreements or create new ones where necessary. Enhanced diplomatic efforts and negotiations are crucial to ensuring fair treatment for Indian nationals in foreign prisons.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the implications of the low repatriation rate of Indian prisoners on international relations.
- What are the key challenges faced by Non-Resident Indians in participating in India’s electoral politics? Discuss.
- Estimate the potential impact of robust reintegration programmes on the lives of returned Indian deportees.
- Point out the significance of real-time data collection for understanding the welfare of Indian migrants abroad.
Answer Hints:
1. Critically analyse the implications of the low repatriation rate of Indian prisoners on international relations.
- Low repatriation rates can strain diplomatic relations between India and countries housing Indian prisoners.
- It may reflect inadequacies in India’s negotiation strategies and bilateral agreements.
- Increased scrutiny on human rights practices may arise if prisoners are not treated fairly abroad.
- Failure to repatriate could lead to negative perceptions of India’s commitment to its citizens’ welfare.
- Enhanced diplomatic efforts could improve relations and facilitate better cooperation on prisoner transfers.
2. What are the key challenges faced by Non-Resident Indians in participating in India’s electoral politics? Discuss.
- Limited access to voting mechanisms such as the Electronically Transmitted Postal Ballot System (ETPBS).
- Complex bureaucratic processes that hinder NRIs from registering and voting.
- Lack of awareness and engagement in political processes among the NRI community.
- Geographical barriers that make participation logistically challenging.
- Potential disinterest or feeling of disconnect from domestic political issues.
3. Estimate the potential impact of robust reintegration programmes on the lives of returned Indian deportees.
- Effective reintegration can reduce recidivism and prevent deportees from returning to dangerous migration paths.
- Support programs can improve mental health and social stability for returned individuals.
- Access to job training and employment opportunities can facilitate economic independence.
- Community-based support can help reintegrate deportees into society, reducing stigma.
- Successful reintegration programs can enhance the overall image of India’s handling of its emigrants.
4. Point out the significance of real-time data collection for understanding the welfare of Indian migrants abroad.
- Real-time data can provide vital information about the conditions and challenges faced by Indian migrants.
- It allows for timely interventions and support to address issues affecting migrants’ welfare.
- Accurate data can inform policy-making and improve government responsiveness to migrant needs.
- It enhances transparency and accountability in the management of migrant affairs.
- Real-time statistics can help in assessing the effectiveness of existing programs and policies.
