Feroze Ahmad Lone : Pakistan Denies Consular Access to Indian Spies

Accident – Death – Obituary News : : 1. Pakistan consular access refusal
2. Indian spies Pakistan consular access

Pakistan has refused to disclose details of consular access for two Indian nationals accused of spying, stating that access has been granted “from time to time.” The Foreign Office spokesperson, Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, confirmed that consular access was provided to the Indian High Commission for the two individuals arrested in Gilgit-Baltistan. The Indian government requested the access, leading to a meeting between Indian diplomats and the alleged spies. The two individuals, Feroze Ahmad Lone and Noor Muhammad Wani, both from Kashmir, were arrested in 2020 on espionage charges. A delegation from the Indian High Commission met with the prisoners at Adiala Jail, accompanied by Interior Ministry officers.

Pakistan Denies Sharing Consular Access Details for Indian Nationals

In a recent development, Pakistan has declined to disclose specifics regarding consular access granted to two Indian nationals accused of espionage. The refusal came amidst mounting tensions between the two neighbouring countries over the issue.

Location of the Incident

The incident took place in Gilgit-Baltistan, a region in northern Pakistan known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Situated at the confluence of the Himalayas, Karakoram, and Hindu Kush mountain ranges, Gilgit-Baltistan is a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, in a press briefing, was questioned about the reported consular access provided to the Indian nationals detained on spying charges in Gilgit-Baltistan. Baloch refrained from divulging specific details but confirmed that Pakistan occasionally facilitates consular access for the Indian High Commission to its citizens.

Consular Access Granted

Earlier this week, The Express Tribune reported that Pakistan authorities had granted consular access to India for a meeting with the two Indian nationals arrested on espionage charges in 2020. The consular access was arranged at the behest of the Indian government, and the meeting between Indian diplomats and the accused spies took place on a Monday.

Reports indicate that the arrested individuals, purportedly hailing from Jammu and Kashmir, were apprehended in Gilgit-Baltistan on suspicion of espionage in 2020. The two men were identified as 29-year-old Feroze Ahmad Lone and 24-year-old Noor Muhammad Wani, both from the Gorez area of Kashmir.

Meeting at Adiala Jail

A three-member delegation from the Indian High Commission in Islamabad met with the detained individuals at Adiala Jail, as per diplomatic sources. The meeting, which took place in the presence of Interior Ministry officials, aimed to address the consular needs of the Indian nationals in custody.

The refusal by Pakistan to disclose further details regarding the consular access granted to the Indian nationals reflects the sensitivity of the issue and the complexities surrounding bilateral relations between the two countries.

Published 01 June 2024, 03:19 IST