India repatriates three Pakistani prisoners

The Government of India on Friday repatriated three Pakistani nationals lodged in different jails across the country on charges of drug smuggling and crossing border illegally.

The prisoners, Mohammad Ramzan, Mohammad Iqbal and Asgar Ali, were sent back to Pakistan via the Attari-Wagah land route and handed over to Pakistani Rangers after the completion of immigration formalities at the joint check post (JCP).

Arun Kumar, protocol officer at the JCP, said Mohammad Iqbal, arrested in 1995 with 10 kg heroin, walked free after serving nearly 30 years in jail. Mohammad Ramzan, held by the Delhi Police in 2010 with 5 kg heroin, also completed his sentence. Police teams from Rajasthan and Delhi escorted the prisoners to Attari amid tight security.

Iqbal said, “I have waited decades for this day. I appeal to both governments to release all prisoners who have completed their sentences. Many are still languishing in detention centres despite finishing their jail terms.”

He said he entered India through the Gurdaspur border and urged youngsters to stay away from drug smuggling: “Do not choose the wrong path. It destroys lives.”

Ramzan of Lahore described his return as an emotional moment: “It feels like Eid for me. I am relieved to finally go home.” He said he entered India through the Jammu border and indulged in drug trade due to greed. Sentenced to 13-year jail, he was returning home after 15 years.