JAMMU: Almost two months after the death of Indian prisoner Chambail Singh in a jail, Pakistan returned his body to his family in Jammu and Kashmir.
The body of the deceased prisoner arrived in an ambulance to the local government hospital in Jammu on Wednesday.
Bereaved relatives and local leaders were campaigning for the return of Singh’s mortal remains.
While thanking the governments of both countries for the gesture, Singh’s family demanded that strict action must be initiated against those responsible for the death of the Indian national.
“I want the Government of India to demand strict action against the culprits in Pakistan. What my father went through other jailed Indian nationals can also face this. Action should be taken against those responsible- a committee should be formed,” said Deepak Singh, son of late Chambail Singh.
Singh, a resident of Jammu and kashmir, was detained in Pakistan in early 2010 on charges of spying. He was sentenced to five years rigorous imprisonment starting August, 18 2010.
A Pakistani lawyer had alleged that Singh was beaten to death by prison staff. Singh was declared dead on arrival by doctors at the state-run Jinnah Hospital on January 15.
Authorities then launched a judicial inquiry into his death. The report has yet to be made public.
Singh was to complete his term in 2015.
(with inputs from agencies)
