Media Release

Al Bahah, Mar 27: Sukumar Shettigar who was physically and mentally tortured by his sponsor was helped to come back to his hometown on Monday, March 27, due to the timely help of Indian Social Forum (ISF).

A few weeks ago, Sukumar’s relatives approached SDPI Bantwal assembly candidate Riyaz Farangipete and in turn he requested NRIs, ISF and Indian Consulate Jeddah Social activist Haneef Manjeshwar to interfere in the case to help the young man.

A couple of months ago, Sukumar had travelled to Al-Bahah in Saudi Arabia and later stuck in dilemma as his visa agent who assured him of heavy driver profession cheated him and forced him to work as a construction labor in a small firm. His relatives back home were in distress as there was no help available to rescue their kin.

Hearing the request from Riyaz and Shakir Nelyadi’s facebook post, ISF member Tanveer and Haneef Manjeshwar rushed to the interior place of Asir, Al Bahah province where Sukumar was working. It is understood that Sukumar was undergoing problematic situation at his work due to physical assault, long working hours without pay and no proper food to eat. With the help of Indian Consulate, the ISF team made necessary arrangements with his sponsor and local government bodies to get his exit visa processed and also they arranged medical support and air ticket to Mangaluru.

The general public and NRIs applauded the noble act by Muslim young men from ISF extending help to the Hindu youth as Bantwal taluk’s Kalladka is generally known for hate speech and rioting by communal forces. NRIs hope such acts from both the communities would bring communal harmony within the society.

Shankar Shettigar expressed his gratitude to ISF, SDPI and everyone involved in this case to bring his brother back home. SDPI team, Sukumar’s relative and social activist Thousif Maindala received Sukumar Shettigar at Mangaluru International Airport.