Leader of Opposition and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) chief Naveen Patnaik has voiced deep concern over the alleged abduction of P. Venkat Raman, a 28-year-old native of Samarajhol village in Hinjilicut block, Ganjam district, who went missing in the African nation of Mali.
According to reports, Raman, who worked at a cement factory in Kayes, Mali, was reportedly taken hostage by extremist groups on July 1. His family last communicated with him on June 30, after which his mobile number has remained unreachable, leaving them in profound distress.
Terming the situation “agonising,” Patnaik took to the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), tagging Union External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and urging immediate personal intervention to secure the young man’s safe and swift release.
“Concerned to know that Panad Venkat Raman of Hinjilicut block of Ganjam district has been kidnapped by extremists in Mali. He has remained incommunicado since then, leaving his family in deep agony. Request Union Minister @DrSJaishankar to personally intervene in the matter and secure his early and safe release,” Patnaik posted.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has confirmed that three Indian nationals were kidnapped in a recent armed incursion in Mali’s Kayes region. While no militant group has yet claimed responsibility, Indian diplomatic efforts are reportedly underway in collaboration with Malian authorities to trace and rescue the missing citizens.
Meanwhile, the Odisha government has assured full support to the affected family and has established contact with the Indian Embassy in Mali to aid in the ongoing rescue process.
As the situation unfolds, concerned voices across the political spectrum are urging strong diplomatic action to ensure the safety of Indian nationals working in vulnerable regions abroad.
