What is India doing to locate missing Indian men in Iran?

Synopsis
India is working diligently with Iranian authorities to locate three missing Indian nationals who disappeared shortly after arriving in Iran. This situation underscores the importance of vigilance and support during international travel. The families seek urgent assistance as the government navigates this complex issue.
Key Takeaways
- Three Indian nationals are currently missing in Iran.
- India is in active communication with Iranian authorities.
- The Indian Embassy is providing support to the families.
- Reports suggest a kidnapping linked to travel promises.
- Families are facing distress as ransom demands have surfaced.
Tehran/New Delhi, May 29 (NationPress) India has confirmed that it is actively collaborating with authorities in Tehran to find three Indian nationals who have reportedly gone missing in Iran.
According to a statement from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the three individuals, who arrived in Iran recently, are unaccounted for. "We are in constant communication with Iranian officials to locate them, ensuring their safety and security while facilitating their return home. Our daily exchanges with the authorities have been fruitful, and we are also maintaining contact with the families of the missing individuals to offer our support," stated MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal during a media briefing in New Delhi.
All three missing men are from Punjab and have been identified as Jaspal Singh, Hushanpreet Singh, and Amritpal Singh. They disappeared on May 1, shortly after their arrival in Tehran, as reported by local authorities.
Family members of the missing individuals informed the Indian Embassy in Iran regarding their loved ones' disappearance. "The Embassy has taken this matter seriously and has urgently requested Iranian authorities to trace the missing Indians and ensure their safety. We are continuously updating the families on our efforts," said a statement from the Indian Embassy in Iran on Wednesday.
Reports suggest that an agent in Punjab had promised to facilitate the trio’s travel to Australia via the Dubai-Iran route, giving assurances of accommodation in Iran. However, they were reportedly kidnapped shortly after arriving in Iran on May 1. The families have alleged that the kidnappers are demanding a ransom of Rs one crore, with calls being made from Pakistani numbers.
India has previously issued a travel advisory for Iran, urging all Indian nationals to exercise caution, stay in touch with the Indian Embassy in Tehran, and the Indian Consulates.