A Pakistani citizen has returned home after spending nearly 18 years in an Indian prison according to the Pakistan High Commission.

Muhammad Shahid Iqbal Bhatti a resident of Kasur arrived at the Wagah Attari Border where he was received by Pakistani officials following his release from Indian custody. Officials stated that Bhatti had been detained in 2008 after reportedly entering India via Nepal in 2005. He remained incarcerated until his recent repatriation.

The High Commission said its sustained diplomatic efforts helped secure Bhatti’s release and safe return. Security authorities confirmed that Bhatti will undergo routine procedural checks before being reunited with his family.

Pakistan and India exchange lists of prisoners and fishermen twice annually under the 2008 Agreement on Consular Access. According to the latest exchange on January 1 India holds 424 Pakistani nationals including 391 civilians and 33 fishermen. Pakistan’s list submitted to India reported 257 Indian prisoners comprising 58 civilians and 199 fishermen.

Although the Wagah Attari crossing remains largely closed amid bilateral tensions it is occasionally opened for humanitarian purposes. Bhatti’s return underscores continuing diplomatic engagement between the two countries to address long standing detention cases.