Pakistan handed over to India a list of 38 Missing Defence Personnel

Pakistan Hands Over List of 38 Missing Defence Personnel to India: Amid ongoing diplomatic engagements between India and Pakistan, a significant exchange recently took place concerning prisoners and missing defence personnel. This article highlights the recent diplomatic exchange between India and Pakistan regarding prisoners and missing defence personnel.

Pakistan handed over to India a list of 38 Missing Defence Personnel

Diplomatic Exchange:

• Simultaneous Exchange: On a diplomatic front, India and Pakistan conducted the exchange of lists regarding civilian prisoners and fishermen. This exchange was conducted through official channels in New Delhi and Islamabad.

Missing Defence Personnel Identified:

Bilateral Agreement:

• Consular Access Agreement: The exchange of lists falls under the purview of the Bilateral Agreement on Consular Access 2008. According to this agreement, such exchanges occur annually on January 1 and July 1, ensuring transparency and procedural adherence.

Details of Lists Exchanged:

• Pakistan’s Contribution: Alongside the list of missing defence personnel, Pakistan provided India with a roster comprising 254 individuals identified as Indian civilian prisoners and fishermen currently in Pakistani custody.
• India’s Contribution: In return, India shared a list featuring 452 Pakistani civilian prisoners and fishermen held in Indian jails, facilitating mutual awareness and administrative coordination.

Calls for Repatriation and Consular Access:

• Immediate Repatriation: The Pakistani government has called upon India for the swift repatriation of Pakistani prisoners who have completed their sentences in Indian prisons, emphasizing humanitarian concerns and adherence to international norms.
• Special Consular Access: Additionally, there is a specific request for special consular access to certain Pakistani prisoners, including those facing physical or mental challenges, to verify their national status promptly.

Historical Context:

• 1965 War: The Indo-Pakistani War of 1965, also known as the second India-Pakistan War, concluded with a ceasefire following international diplomatic interventions.
• 1971 War: The 1971 war between India and Pakistan resulted in the creation of Bangladesh, marking a significant geopolitical shift in South Asia.

Future Prospects of this Advancement

• Diplomatic Foundation: The exchange of 38 missing Indian defence personnel by Pakistan to India lays a solid foundation for future diplomatic engagements.
• Trust Building: It fosters trust and confidence between Pakistan and India by addressing historical humanitarian concerns through structured dialogue.
• Bilateral Commitment: Demonstrates adherence to the Bilateral Agreement on Consular Access 2008, ensuring regular exchanges for transparency and procedural adherence.
• Peace and Stability: Sets a precedent for resolving sensitive issues, contributing to regional peace and stability in South Asia.
• Humanitarian Focus: Highlights a mutual commitment to humanitarian considerations and the welfare of prisoners of war and missing defence personnel.
• Path to Cooperation: Provides a pathway for continued cooperation and dialogue, potentially leading to broader confidence-building measures and constructive engagements.

Unlock Your Defence Success with Defence Online Course - Join Today!!