Sarabjeet Singh

(2013-04-27)

As a result of a scuffle between prisoners at the Kot Lakhpath Jail, Lahore, yesterday, Indian prisoner Sarabjeet Singh suffered head injuries which rendered him unconscious. He was immediately evacuated to Jinnah Hospital, Lahore where he was provided emergency medical assistance. Doctors and medical staff at the hospital are working around the clock to revive the prisoner who remains unconscious and on a ventilator.

On hearing of the incident and in view of its humanitarian nature, the Government of Pakistan provided timely consular access and permitted two officials of the Indian High Commission in Islamabad to travel to Lahore and visit the prisoner late last night. The medical staff of the Jinnah Hospital as well as officials of the Government of Punjab present there were forthcoming in providing all assistance to the Indian High Commission officials and updated them on the medical condition of Sarabjeet Singh.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also instructed its High Commission in New Delhi to facilitate provision of visas to family members of Sarabjeet Singh who may wish to visit him during his hospitalization.

Meanwhile, the Home Department Punjab and jail authorities are investigating the matter.

Islamabad
27 April 2013

110/2013