Mohammad Masroof, also known as Mansoor Ahmed, is set to return to Pakistan after spending 16 years in an Indian prison. The 50-year-old, who has been incarcerated since 2008, will be released from Gorakhpur District Jail on February 7, marking the end of his sentence.
Masroof was arrested near the India-Nepal border in Bahraich, Uttar Pradesh, for illegally entering India without proper documentation, including a visa or passport. Though initially charged with espionage, the Allahabad High Court later acquitted him of those charges, convicting him only for immigration violations.
Having served a sentence beyond the mandated duration, a release order was issued by India’s Union Home Ministry. Jail Superintendent AK Kushwaha confirmed that preparations are underway for Masroof’s transfer to Delhi, from where he will be handed over to Pakistani authorities at the Attari border.
The Ministry of External Affairs has already provided a No Objection Certificate to facilitate his repatriation. Masroof, who was moved to Gorakhpur Jail from Varanasi Central Prison four years ago, has been noted for his good behavior during his time in custody. He has expressed great joy at the prospect of reuniting with his family in Pakistan.
