Satnam Singh, an Indian laborer, passed away in northern Italy under tragic circumstances, sparking outrage and prompting action from the Indian government. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has strongly condemned the treatment Singh received, stating that he was not given proper care following an accident.
Singh’s employer, who was responsible for his medical care, has been taken into custody. The MEA spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, demanded humane treatment for all workers and confirmed that Singh’s family is receiving all possible support. “His employer who was supposed to provide him medical care has been arrested and the investigation goes on. We condemn such treatment. We call for the human treatment of workers. We are providing all possible assistance to his family,” Jaiswal said during a weekly briefing.
India has raised the issue with Italy, demanding swift action against those responsible for Singh’s death. Muktesh Pardeshi, Secretary (Consular Passport and Visa Division and Overseas Indian Affairs) in the MEA, brought the matter to the attention of Luigi Maria Vignali, Director General for Migratory Policies and Italians Abroad, at the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Pardeshi also confirmed that the Indian Embassy in Italy is in close contact with Singh’s family to provide consular assistance and facilitate the transportation of his body back to India.
“@SecretaryCPVOIA Muktesh Pardeshi conveyed to @LuigiVignali Italian DG our deep concern about death of Satnam Singh & called for prompt action against those responsible. Embassy is in contact with family of Satnam Singh for consular help &transportation of mortal remains @MEAIndia,” the Indian embassy in Italy posted on X on June 26.
According to the Flai CGIL trade union, Singh lost his life after being abandoned on the street following an accident at his workplace. The accident, which resulted in the severing of his arm, occurred while he was working at a farm. Instead of receiving help from his employer, “Singh was dumped like a bag of rubbish near his home,” according to the trade union.
Earlier last week, the Indian Embassy stated that it was in contact with local authorities and was making efforts to contact Singh’s family and provide consular assistance.
