India, Pakistan exchange lists of prisoners

"This is in keeping with the provisions of the 2008 Agreement under which such lists are exchanged on 1 January and 1 July every year," read a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs.

Lists of 249 civilian prisoners and 108 fishermen were handed over to Pakistan, the MEA said.

Pakistan has shared lists of 53 civilian prisoners and 418 fishermen in its custody, who are Indians or believed to be Indians, the statement further said.

The MEA statement further said that the government has emphasised on the need for early release and repatriation of civilian prisoners, missing Indian defence personnel and fishermen along with their boats.

In this context, Pakistan was asked to expedite the release of 9 Indian civilian prisoners and 229 Indian fishermen , who have completed their sentences and whose nationality have been confirmed.

Immediate consular access has also been sought for the remaining prisoners and fishermen to facilitate their early release and repatriation, read the statement.

In order to take further the understanding reached to address the humanitarian issues, especially with respect to elderly, women and mentally unsound prisoners, India has already shared the details of the reconstituted Joint Judicial Committee and that of the Indian medical experts team to visit Pakistan to meet the mentally unsound prisoners.

Pakistan has also been requested to allow the visit of a group of fishermen representatives to facilitate the repatriation of Indian fishing boats,presently held in Pakistan's custody, at the earliest, read the MEA statement.