On April 6, a special court in India ruled to extend the detention of six Ukrainian citizens, who are suspected of involvement in terrorism, for an additional 30 days. The proceedings were held behind closed doors, and representatives from the Ukrainian Embassy were not permitted to attend the hearings.
The Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the court’s decision and reiterated its concerns regarding the lack of access to the detained individuals. Despite repeated requests, embassy officials have been denied entry to the court sessions where the detention terms were discussed.
The Ministry stated, “We are utilizing all available political and diplomatic means to secure consular access to the detained individuals.” This situation has raised alarms within the Ukrainian government, which emphasizes that there is no evidence linking the detained citizens to any illegal activities.
Background information indicates that the six Ukrainians were apprehended on March 13, following reports from Indian media regarding their alleged plans to conduct terrorist activities. On March 27, the same court had already decided to keep the detainees in custody until April 6, without allowing consular access during this period.
- Reports emerged in March about the arrest of the Ukrainian nationals in India.
- The Ukrainian government has denied any involvement of the detained individuals in criminal acts.
- Since their arrest, the Indian authorities have not granted consular access to the detained Ukrainians.
An Indian court has extended the detention of six Ukrainian citizens suspected of terrorism for another month, amid ongoing diplomatic efforts by Ukraine to secure consular access. The lack of evidence linking the detainees to criminal activities has been emphasized by Ukrainian officials.