Chandigarh, Aug 16 (NationPress) Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP from Anandpur Sahib, Malvinder Singh Kang, has reached out to External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to request his intervention in addressing the plight of thousands of Indian citizens stranded in Spain due to ongoing delays in passport renewal and re-issuance at the Indian Consulate.

In his correspondence, Kang pointed out that typical issues like damaged, lost, or expired passports have escalated into a humanitarian crisis, leaving many individuals, particularly from Punjab, stranded for more than six months. He emphasized that these citizens are being denied their fundamental right to mobility and the opportunity to reunite with their families.

“The viral dissemination of emotional videos showing desperate applicants outside the Consulate underscores their distress and illustrates the extent of suffering. Some of those affected are grappling with serious medical conditions that require immediate attention, while others are facing heartbreaking family emergencies,” Kang posted on X.

The AAP MP warned that the ongoing delays in passport processing not only cause immense hardships for citizens abroad but also tarnish India’s image as a caring and efficient protector of its global diaspora.

He called on the Ministry of External Affairs to instruct the Consulate in Spain to revamp its processes, prioritize pending cases, and ensure prompt passport services. Kang further appealed, “I earnestly request @DrSJaishankar Ji’s urgent intervention as thousands of Indians, including many from Punjab, have been stranded in Spain for the past six months due to substantial delays in passport renewal and re-issuance at our Consulate.

“Many are facing critical medical needs or family tragedies, yet remain in limbo. A viral video captures their anguish; a swift and decisive resolution of all pending cases is crucial to alleviate their suffering, uphold their dignity, and reunite them with their families.”

Kang assured the ministry of his complete support in connecting with those affected and providing further details as necessary.

He expressed optimism that prompt action from the government would alleviate the burden on affected individuals, reaffirm India’s commitment to responsive governance, and protect the dignity and welfare of its citizens abroad.