CHANDIGARH, Nov 28: In a humanitarian move, Indian authorities on Friday released three Pakistani nationals who had completed their sentences in various Indian prisons.
The handover took place at the Attari Wagah border, where officials confirmed that all legal and immigration formalities had been completed before transferring the men to the Pakistan Rangers.
Among those released was Mohammad Iqbal, a resident of Pakistan’s Punjab province, who spent nearly 30 years in Indian jails. Arrested at the age of 18 under the NDPS Act for possession of heroin in Gurdaspur, Iqbal had been serving a lengthy sentence.
Speaking briefly at the border, he described the day as “nothing less than Eid,” expressing gratitude for the chance to return home after decades behind bars.
Iqbal reflected on his past, calling his youthful decisions a “grave mistake,” and urged young people to stay away from illegal activities driven by greed. He also appealed to both governments to show leniency toward prisoners who have completed their sentences.
Protocol Officer Arun Mahl confirmed the release, stating that the three men had served their full terms, two from Rajasthan jails and one brought from Delhi.
After verification of documents, immigration checks, and clearance of customs procedures, all three were formally handed over to Pakistani authorities.
The atmosphere at the border reflected relief and emotional closure, marking the end of a long wait for the prisoners and their families across the border. (UNI)
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