Kashmiri Healthcare Worker Detained in Saudi Arabia Over Social Media Activity
A 29-year-old man from Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla district has been allegedly detained by authorities in Saudi Arabia, sparking concern and diplomatic efforts. Amjad Ali Bhat, who worked as a nurse specialist at a health facility in Dammam, was picked up on March 25, 2024, with his family now struggling to ascertain his whereabouts amid the ongoing West Asia crisis.
Details of the Detention and Family's Anguish
According to his elder sister, Shahida, the family learned of Amjad's detention when they called his contact number on March 25. The call was answered by his colleague and roommate from Tamil Nadu, who revealed that Amjad was taken during his day shift at the workplace by what were described as 'local authorities'. The authorities reportedly did not provide any reason for the detention, disclose the charges, or inform about the location of the detention centre or police station.
Amjad had moved to Saudi Arabia in June 2023 to join a company in Dammam, and his father, Ghulam Ali, expressed deep worry, stating they have no information about him now. The family suspects the detention is linked to a social media post uploaded by Amjad on his Facebook account on March 3, concerning Iran's late supreme leader, Ayatollah Khamenei. A screenshot of the post has been obtained, though specific content details were not disclosed.
Diplomatic and Governmental Efforts Underway
In response to the situation, the family has taken multiple steps to seek assistance:
- They wrote to the Embassy of India in Riyadh and the Embassy of Saudi Arabia in Delhi.
- The Indian embassy replied on April 2, confirming that the matter has been taken up with Saudi authorities and is being followed up, with promises to keep the family informed.
- They submitted an application at their local police station in Kashmir and sought help from the Jammu and Kashmir government.
Additionally, the J&K Students' Association (JKSA) has intervened by writing to the Ministry of External Affairs on Monday. Nasir Khuehami, the national convenor of JKSA, stated that they have written to External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, seeking urgent intervention and raising concerns over Amjad's safety, legal status, and prolonged inaccessibility.
Family Background and Economic Impact
Amjad Ali Bhat is the fourth among eight siblings, with three elder sisters, and serves as the sole breadwinner for his family. His father is a pensioner after retiring from the handicrafts department under the Union Ministry of Textiles, highlighting the economic vulnerability and urgency of resolving this case. The family's desperate efforts continue as they await further responses, particularly from the Saudi embassy in India, which has not yet replied.
This incident underscores the complexities of international employment, social media regulations, and diplomatic protocols, with the family and supporters hoping for a swift and transparent resolution to ensure Amjad's well-being and return.
