Omar seeks Centre’s ‘urgent’ intervention after Ramban resident’s abduction in Niger
In a deeply troubling incident, a resident of Jammu and Kashmir was kidnapped in Niger during a violent attack. Ranjit Singh, from the Gool area of Ramban, was abducted on July 15 in the Dosso region of Niger. Tragically, two other Indian nationals lost their lives in the same assault.
Following the news, former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah urged the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to act swiftly. He specifically called on External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar to ensure Singh’s safe and immediate return.
“I appeal to Hon’ble External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and the Ministry to urgently take up the matter with their counterparts in Niger. Every minute counts,” Omar wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
A Terror Attack Abroad
Ranjit Singh had been working as a safety officer for Transrail Lighting Limited. He moved to Niger over six months ago to support his family financially. On July 15, his family spoke with him for the last time. The following day, company officials informed them about the terrifying abduction.
The gunmen attacked a construction site in Dosso, more than 100 kilometers from the capital, Niamey. They shot and killed two Indian workers and took Singh away. This has left his family in deep fear and uncertainty.
Family’s Emotional Plea
Meanwhile, Singh’s family in Ramban has been living in anguish. His wife, Sheela Devi, made a tearful public appeal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the MEA.
“My entire life is at stake. My children are crying every day. I just want my husband back,” she said through local news outlets.
His father, Mohan Lal Sen, echoed her concerns. “We are extremely worried. The government must act immediately,” he stated.
Singh is the sole earner in the family. He had taken the job abroad to ensure a better future for his children and aging parents.
Indian Embassy Takes Action
The Indian Embassy in Niamey confirmed the attack and quickly contacted local authorities. Officials are now working with the Nigerien government to locate Singh. At the same time, they are helping with the repatriation of the two victims.
In their public advisory, the embassy asked Indian nationals in Niger to stay alert and avoid unnecessary travel. This precaution follows rising tensions in the region.
Security Crisis in Niger
Over the past year, Niger has witnessed an increase in terrorist activities, particularly in the Sahel region. Militant groups linked to ISIS and al-Qaeda continue to target civilians and foreign workers. While Dosso was once considered safe, recent events show that the threat is expanding.
Construction and energy project workers often operate in remote areas. As a result, they become easy targets due to minimal security and slow emergency response.
Political Leaders Step In
Omar Abdullah’s public appeal has drawn national attention to the crisis. Other leaders in Jammu and Kashmir have also voiced their support for the abducted worker and his family.
Although the MEA has yet to release a detailed update, sources say Indian officials are in close contact with their counterparts in Niger. Negotiations and rescue efforts are believed to be underway, though specifics remain confidential for security reasons.
Worker Safety Must Improve
This incident highlights the urgent need for stronger safety protocols for Indians working abroad. Every year, thousands of Indian professionals travel to high-risk regions in Africa and the Middle East for employment. While the financial rewards are attractive, the risks often go unnoticed until tragedy strikes.
Employers must provide adequate security, emergency evacuation plans, and insurance for their workers. Government agencies also need to monitor conditions in these areas more closely and warn citizens about potential threats.
A Community in Hope and Prayer
Today, the people of Ramban, and indeed the entire country, are united in support of Ranjit Singh’s safe return. His family clings to hope, and his wife continues to plead for help. Their children wait for news, hoping their father will come home soon.
Thanks to Omar Abdullah’s timely intervention and growing media coverage, the pressure on authorities has increased. Everyone hopes that this added momentum will lead to swift diplomatic action and, ultimately, Singh’s rescue.
