PHAGWARA: In a remarkable example of proactive leadership and unwavering commitment to public service, former Rajya Sabha Member Avinash Rai Khanna played a pivotal role in securing the safe return of Simardeep Singh, a Ludhiana-based youth who was stranded in Iran under distressing circumstances.
The matter came to light when Simardeep’s father, a well-known industrialist from Ludhiana, approached Khanna few days back. Deeply concerned for his son's safety, he requested Khanna’s urgent intervention. Without delay, Khanna sprang into action.
Recognizing the seriousness of the situation, Khanna immediately escalated the issue to the Prime Minister’s Office and External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, urging them to intervene under the ambit of Operation Sindhu, the government’s mission to bring back stranded Indian nationals from high-risk zones abroad. His persistent follow-ups and constant communication with relevant authorities ensured that the case remained on priority.
Khanna’s personal involvement, hands-on coordination, and effective liaison with the Ministry of External Affairs proved instrumental in facilitating Simardeep’s inclusion in the evacuation process. As a result, Simardeep Singh was brought back to India safely, much to the relief of his family.
Upon his return, both Simardeep and his father contacted Khanna to express their profound gratitude. They acknowledged that without Khanna’s timely intervention, the outcome could have been very different. Simardeep also shared that many of his fellow returnees from Iran were repeatedly echoing the sentiment — “Modi hai to mumkin hai” — a reflection not only of national leadership but also of committed ground-level efforts like those of Khanna.
This incident stands as a testament to Avinash Rai Khanna’s dedication to public welfare and his resolve to act swiftly and decisively in moments of crisis. His efforts not only reunited a family but also reaffirmed the power of sincere political service.