Sayed Habib, Punjab The families of three young men from Punjab are currently enduring immense anguish and uncertainty. These youths had left for Australia last month but have since lost all contact with their loved ones. The families claim that after being kidnapped in Iran, the victims’ captors have begun demanding ransom—curiously, from Pakistan. Last month, 23-year-old Amritpal Singh from Bhagowal village in Hoshiarpur, along with Husanpreet Singh from Sangrur and Jaspal Singh from Nawanshahr, set off on their journey to Australia. Their families say they paid agents as much as 18 lakh rupees each for visas and work permits. According to the families, the plan was to travel to Australia via Iran. However, as soon as the youths arrived in Iran, they were abducted. They were reportedly waiting for a taxi after landing at the Tehran airport but never made it to their hotel. Amritpal Singh’s mother, Gurdeep Kaur, shared that the agents had reassured them by confirming visas and flight tickets. But later, when the tickets were mysteriously canceled, it became clear they could not travel directly to Australia and had to stay in Iran. Following this, all three agents vanished, locking their homes and disappearing without a trace. The families believe they have been cheated and are desperate for help. Disturbingly, through video calls, the kidnappers have shown signs of harming the youths and initially demanded a ransom of 2 crore rupees, which was later reduced to 54 lakh rupees—18 lakh per person. Gurdeep Kaur revealed that the bank account provided for the ransom payments is based in Pakistan. Currently trapped in this agonizing predicament, the families are pleading with the government to secure the safe return of their sons as soon as possible. Hoshiarpur’s SHO, Gursahib Singh, confirmed that the police are actively investigating the case. Complaints have been registered, and efforts are underway to apprehend both the kidnappers and the deceitful agents. The Indian Embassy in Tehran has also acknowledged the families' reports. They have contacted Iranian authorities, urging them to ensure the youths’ safety and conduct thorough search operations. The embassy is maintaining regular communication with the families. Amritpal Singh’s maternal uncle, Gurdev Singh, said, “There has been no sign of Amritpal for about ten days now. The family is in a state of deep distress.” Husanpreet Singh’s local councilor, Bhupinder Singh, appealed to officials, saying, “The boy must be brought back safely to India immediately.” Husanpreet’s home remains locked, and his relatives have moved in to support the family. Similarly, Jaspal Singh’s mother, Narinder Kaur, stated that her son reached Tehran airport on May 1 but has been unreachable ever since. The family has been receiving continuous ransom calls but has not been able to pay any money or establish contact for over two weeks. This harrowing incident serves as a stark warning to thousands of families in Punjab who rely on agents promising overseas opportunities. Authorities must act swiftly to bring relief to victims and sensitize young people about the dangers of illegal and uncertain migration routes. Ongoing Police Investigation Punjab Police continue their efforts to track down the accused agents and kidnappers. Meanwhile, the families hold on to hope for the safe return of their loved ones in this life-or-death struggle. Ministry of External Affairs Statement on the Missing Indians in Iran New Delhi: On Thursday, the Ministry of External Affairs clarified the situation concerning the three Indian citizens missing in Iran. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that while the youths had arrived in Tehran some time ago, they have since gone missing. The ministry is in constant contact with Iranian authorities, making every effort to ensure the safety and early return of the youths. “We are receiving good cooperation from Iran and remain in touch with the families,” said Jaiswal. “All possible measures are being taken to trace the youths and ensure their well-being.” Case Summary Three youths from Sangrur, Hoshiarpur, and Nawanshahr traveled to Australia last month but have reportedly been kidnapped in Iran. Their families say the kidnappers have started demanding ransom. Role of the Indian Embassy After receiving information from families, the Indian Embassy in Iran promptly raised the issue with Iranian authorities, insisting on the immediate tracing and protection of the missing Indians. The embassy continues to keep the families updated. Government’s Commitment The Ministry of External Affairs assures that the Government of India is taking this matter very seriously. It remains committed to the safety of the youths and supporting their families. Cooperation with Iranian officials is ongoing to ensure the earliest possible safe return. This case highlights the risks faced by many Indian citizens traveling abroad through unofficial channels. The government and administration must take prompt action to prevent such incidents and protect Indian nationals overseas.
