New Delhi/Tehran, May 28 — The Indian Embassy in Tehran has officially raised concerns with Iranian authorities after three Indian nationals from Punjab reportedly went missing upon arrival in Iran earlier this month. The Embassy has called for an urgent investigation and demanded assurances regarding their safety.
In a public statement released on X (formerly Twitter), the Embassy of India in Iran confirmed it has “strongly taken up the matter” with the concerned Iranian departments. The missing individuals — all reportedly from the same family — traveled to Iran on May 1 and have not been heard from since.
— India in Iran (@India_in_Iran) May 28, 2025
Source: India in Iran
Family members of three Indian citizens have informed the Embassy of India that their relatives are missing after having travelled to Iran,” read the official post from the Indian Embassy’s verified handle. “We have strongly taken up the matter with Iranian authorities and requested that the individuals be urgently traced. Their safety must be ensured.”
The Indian Embassy further reassured the public and the concerned families that diplomatic efforts are ongoing. The post also stated that families are being kept informed of any developments regarding the case.
Who Are the 3 Missing Indians?
According to NDTV, the three missing individuals are:
- Hushanpreet Singh, resident of Sangrur, Punjab
- Jaspal Singh, from Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar
- Amritpal Singh, a native of Hoshiarpur
The trio reportedly landed in Tehran on May 1 and have since disappeared without a trace. While there is no official confirmation regarding the circumstances of their disappearance, media reports suggest they may have fallen prey to an illegal immigration racket.
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Source: Times Now
Alleged Human Trafficking Incident
Unverified reports suggest the three men had planned to reach Australia through unauthorized immigration channels. According to statements from their families aired by NDTV, the trio had been promised a route to Australia by an agent who organized their travel to Iran.
However, shortly after they landed in Tehran, all contact was lost. The families claim they later received a phone call demanding a ransom of ₹1 crore, leading them to suspect the men had been kidnapped.
HT (Hindustan Times) has noted that it cannot independently verify the kidnapping or ransom claims at this time.
Embassy and Government Response
The Indian Embassy in Iran has reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safe return of the missing individuals. The mission is reportedly working closely with Iranian authorities, seeking immediate updates and actions.
“We are in constant communication with the family members and updating them about all efforts being made by the mission,” added the statement from the embassy.
The Indian government, through its diplomatic channels, is believed to be leveraging bilateral ties with Iran to expedite the search and investigation.
Human Trafficking via Iran: A Growing Concern
This alarming incident has once again brought into focus the growing trend of illegal immigration networks using Iran as a transit point. Over the years, several Indians have been lured with the promise of reaching Western nations — such as Australia, Canada, or European countries — through unauthorized and often dangerous routes.
According to a 2023 report by The Hindu, illegal immigration rackets often route individuals through countries like Iran, Turkey, and Serbia, eventually landing them in legal jeopardy or at the mercy of human traffickers.
India-Iran Relations and Cooperation
India and Iran share long-standing diplomatic ties, and both nations have previously cooperated on matters involving security, counterterrorism, and human trafficking. In light of this incident, it is expected that Iran will take swift action to support India’s request.
India has also signed multiple bilateral agreements on tackling cross-border crimes, including people smuggling and document fraud.
Reactions From Punjab
The news has caused considerable anxiety in the hometowns of the missing men. Local representatives and community leaders from Sangrur, SBS Nagar, and Hoshiarpur have appealed to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to ensure speedy action.
Several Punjab-based news channels have interviewed the families, who broke down in front of the media and urged both state and central governments to bring their sons home safely.
Punjab has long struggled with cases of illegal immigration and human smuggling. Many families, desperate for better economic opportunities abroad, often fall prey to unscrupulous agents who exploit their dreams.
What Happens Next?
The situation remains tense as no further communication has been received from the missing men or their captors, if indeed this is a kidnapping case. Indian authorities have emphasized that diplomatic engagement with Iran will continue until the case is resolved.
The MEA is expected to issue a more detailed statement in the coming days, especially if any breakthrough occurs. Family members are hopeful that the intervention by the Indian Embassy will lead to some positive development soon.
Final Thoughts
This disturbing incident serves as a grim reminder of the dangers of illegal immigration and the need for strict regulation and public awareness. The Indian government has repeatedly warned citizens against falling prey to agents who promise overseas jobs or quick access to countries like Australia or Canada through backdoor channels.
If you or someone you know is planning to travel abroad, especially through non-official channels, it is highly recommended to consult government-authorized immigration consultants and verify all travel documents and procedures through official channels.
For official travel advisories and immigration updates, visit: Bureau of Immigration – Government of India
