How many are on death row abroad?
49 Indian nationals are currently on death row in foreign countries.
The UAE has the highest number, with 25 Indian nationals awaiting execution.
Saudi Arabia follows with 11 Indian nationals on death row.
What has been India’s response?
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) states that Indian Missions abroad provide all possible assistance to convicted Indian citizens.
The process involves:
The initial arrest and indictment.
The judicial process and sentencing.
Appeals for pardon to the head of state.
Indian embassies facilitate pardon petitions from family members.
In some Gulf countries, sentences can be commuted through "blood money," subject to acceptance by the state and the victim's family.
The state can refuse blood money, depending on the crime.
Can the embassy do more?
Death sentences are typically for severe crimes like murder, rape, and treason.
In countries with less transparent judicial systems (like Saudi Arabia), embassies may not be informed of arrests or judicial processes until after execution.
Confessions limit the embassy's role, as circumstances are often unknown.
In countries with more open judicial systems, embassies can nominate lawyers and provide legal assistance using welfare funds.
Has India intervened successfully in the past?
The Indian government successfully secured the release of eight Indian navy veterans sentenced to death in Qatar.
Gurdip Singh, sentenced to death in Indonesia, was spared due to Indian government intervention.
COMMENTS