February 1, 2003	Saturday	Ziqa’ad 28, 1423

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NEW DELHI, Jan 31: India on Friday asked Pakistan to repatriate Indian fishermen and other civilians held by Islamabad, as early as possible, a spokesman said.

Aman Rashid, First Secretary in the Pakistan High Commission here, was called to the foreign ministry where he met Director (Pakistan) Ruchi Ghanshyam, spokesman Navtej Sarna told reporters.

“It was urged that they (the fishermen and civilians) be repatriated as early as possible,” Sarna said. The spokesman claimed among those in Pakistan custody were 22 Sikhs.

He said consular access to these Sikhs had been allowed and their nationality was also verified. However, consular access to 16 other Sikhs was yet to be given. There are 53 “other civilians” detained in Pakistan, including the crews of two cargo boats.

“It was highlighted (during the meeting) that there was a need to respect the rights of these people,” Sarna said.—AFP