NEW DELHI – Three Indian nationals from Punjab have gone missing in Iran, with their families fearing abduction and alleging they were misled by travel agents who promised legitimate passage to Australia for work.
The Indian Embassy in Tehran confirmed Tuesday that it is actively coordinating with Iranian authorities to locate the missing men, who are residents of Sangrur, Nawanshahr, and Hoshiarpur districts.
Travel Agents Under Investigation
According to embassy sources, the three men had paid travel agents for work permits to Australia but were allegedly rerouted through Iran as part of what was described as a temporary transit arrangement. The families claim their relatives were forced to take the illegal “Dunki” route commonly used for unauthorized immigration.
“The agents took money from us and promised legitimate passage to Australia for work opportunities,” said Husnpreet’s mother from Sangrur. “Instead, they delivered our son into a dangerous situation.”
The situation escalated when families received disturbing images and videos allegedly showing the men with their hands tied and visible injuries, suggesting possible abduction.
Communication Breaks Down
The families last spoke with the missing individuals on May 11. Since then, all communication has ceased, prompting growing concern among relatives and local authorities.
A police complaint has been filed against the travel agent involved in the case, though sources indicate the agent is currently absconding.
Government Intervention Sought
Relatives of Amritpal, one of the missing men from Hoshiarpur, have approached Punjab Cabinet Minister Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal and MP Dr. Rajkumar seeking government intervention in the matter.
The case has drawn attention to the ongoing issue of illegal immigration fraud, particularly affecting young men from Punjab seeking overseas employment opportunities.
Pattern of Illegal Routes
This incident follows recent deportations of several Indian nationals, many from Punjab, who were caught attempting to reach the United States through similar unauthorized channels earlier this year.
The “Dunki” route, named after a Punjabi term meaning “hop,” involves dangerous and illegal border crossings that often put migrants at risk of exploitation, violence, and detention.
Official Response
The Indian Embassy in Tehran has assured families that efforts to locate the missing men are ongoing and that they are working closely with Iranian authorities to resolve the situation.
Local police in Punjab have launched an investigation into the travel agent’s operations and are examining similar cases that may be connected to this network.
