ISLAMABAD: The process for the release and repatriation of a Pakistani woman languishing in an Indian prison along with her daughter is almost complete and she is likely to return to Pakistan in the next few days.

       PML-N Senator Irfan Siddiqui had raised the issue in the Senate before issuance of citizenship certificate to the woman who has already completed her jail term.

       Talking to a group of journalists outside Parliament House in Islamabad on Wednesday, he said there was progress in Sumaira’s case after the issuance of a citizenship certificate by the interior ministry and hectic efforts by Pakistani High Commission in New Delhi. Apart from formal correspondence, the Pakistan High Commission also made personal contacts with the Indian authorities for the purpose.

       Senator Siddiqui said that the Pakistan Foreign Office was also in touch with the Indian High Commission in Islamabad for the woman’s early return to Pakistan.

       In reply to a question, the senator said that according to his information, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs had already issued an NOC to Sumaira and her daughter and the matter had now been referred to the Indian home ministry.

       Senator Siddiqui said he did not know much about Sumaira’s parents, but some sources said that Sumaira’s Qatar-based brother was in contact with her.

       Published in Dawn, March 10th, 2022