HC rejects PIL for release of Indians from Pakistan jails

Dismissing two PILs filed by Madangopal Khushiram Paul, an advocate and human rights activist, seeking the release of Indian prisoners and also compensation for them, a bench of Acting Chief Justice A K Sikri and Justice Rajiv Sahai Endlaw accepted the Centre's submission that all possible steps in this regard have been taken with Islamabad at all levels.

"...We therefore do not find any merit in these petitions. The same are dismissed. We, however, implore the government of India to continue its efforts for release of these persons," the bench said while accepting the argument that the government has implemented the NHRC's directions passed in 2007.

The court also dismissed the petitioner's plea for compensation to the prisoners who have been released from Pakistan jail but not financially compensated by the Indian government. (More)