Three Indian nationals, Yogesh Panchal, Mohammad Sadeeque, and Sumeet Sud, have gone missing in Iran, prompting urgent action from the Indian government to locate and ensure their safe return. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that these individuals traveled to Iran for business purposes from late December 2024 to early January 2025.
On Wednesday, the Indian Embassy in Tehran issued a statement regarding the situation, indicating that the families of the missing individuals had reached out to express their concerns. The Embassy noted, “The family members of the three Indian citizens have informed the Embassy that their relatives are missing after having traveled to Iran. We have strongly taken up this matter with the Iranian authorities, requesting them to urgently trace the missing Indians and ensure their safety. We are also keeping the families regularly updated on our efforts.”
Reports from Economic Times revealed that Panchal and Sadeeque had entered Tehran under Iran’s 15-day visa waiver program, which is designed to promote tourism and business exchanges. Yogesh Panchal, in particular, had recently launched an export company specializing in dry fruits and apples, actively seeking commercial opportunities in the Iranian market. The three men were last known to be in the Baherestan area of Tehran, but communication ceased shortly after their arrival.
The families of the missing individuals have expressed deep worries, fearing that they may have been detained by Iranian security forces. The Indian Embassy, in collaboration with the MEA, is actively engaged with Iranian officials to expedite the search and guarantee the safety of the three nationals. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also discussed the matter directly with Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Ravanchi in a recent diplomatic meeting in New Delhi, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
The MEA has committed to maintaining regular communication with the families, providing continuous updates on efforts to locate the missing individuals. As the search progresses, both the families and the Indian government remain hopeful for a swift resolution.
This ongoing situation highlights the complexities of international business travel and the necessity for robust support systems for citizens abroad, with the Indian government actively navigating diplomatic channels to ensure the safety of its nationals.
Original Source: https://www.livemint.com/news/3-indians-go-missing-after-travelling-to-iran-india-strongly-raises-issue-with-tehran-11748426895990.html
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Publish Date: 2025-05-28 16:09:00
