Odisha Minister Seeks MEA Intervention for Safe Return of Jagatsinghpur Youth Stranded in Saudi Arabia

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Industries, Skill Development and Technical Education Minister Sampad Chandra Swain has appealed to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to facilitate the safe return of an Odia youth who is reportedly stranded in Saudi Arabia after the completion of his employment contract.

In a letter addressed to External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, Swain urged the Centre to take immediate steps to repatriate Ranjan Mohapatra, a resident of Jagatsinghpur district.

According to the Minister, Ranjan travelled to Saudi Arabia in May 2024 to work as a wheel loader driver with Majad Al-Harbi Company. Although his employment contract ended on April 30, 2026, his family has alleged that the company has not permitted him to return to India.

Ranjan’s mother, Damam Sethi, claimed that despite the expiry of the contract, her son continues to remain in Saudi Arabia against his wishes. The family further said that his father, Sadhu Charan Sethi, is seriously unwell, making the situation even more distressing for them.

Expressing concern over the family’s plight, Swain described the matter as a humanitarian issue and urged the MEA to intervene without delay to ensure Ranjan’s safe and early return to India.

The Minister has also written to the Indian Ambassador in Saudi Arabia, requesting prompt assistance and necessary coordination to facilitate the youth’s repatriation at the earliest.