RUPNAGAR, Oct 21 — What began as a dream for better livelihoods has turned into a nightmare for eight youths from Punjab, who say they were tricked by a travel agent into going to Kazakhstan for fake driver jobs and are now being forced to do gruelling labour in subzero conditions.
A video that surfaced online shows the men working in snow-covered terrain, hauling heavy loads, and living in rusted metal containers. With little food and no heating, they say survival itself has become a challenge.
Harvinder Singh, one of the victims from Nangal, managed to contact BJP district president Ajayvir Singh Lalpura over phone, narrating the group’s ordeal. “We were promised good salaries and comfortable accommodation, but we have been treated like slaves,” Harvinder reportedly told him.
Lalpura said he was deeply disturbed by the call. “It is shameful that Punjabi youth, known for their hard work and spirit, are being subjected to such exploitation abroad. Eight young men are living in containers without food or rest. This must end,” he said, adding that he has urged the central authorities to initiate efforts for their repatriation.
The victims have been identified as Harvinder Singh, Manjit Singh, Amarjit Singh, Hardeep Singh, and Avtar Singh, among others. According to sources, their families have also approached Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains, seeking swift government action.
Parents say they have not slept in days, fearing for their children’s safety. “My son calls me crying every night. He says they are starving and freezing,” said one parent. “We just want them home.”
Officials said the state government has begun collecting details of the agent involved and may seek assistance from the Ministry of External Affairs for a coordinated rescue effort.
