The Indian government has urged Italy to take swift action against those responsible for the tragic death of Satnam Singh, an Indian farm worker. Satnam lost his life after being abandoned on the roadside by his employer following a horrific accident where his arm was severed by heavy machinery. Instead of getting him proper medical care, the employer just dumped him off.
The Indian Embassy in Italy expressed India’s “deep concern” over this awful incident. Muktesh Pardeshi, Secretary (CPV & OIA), called for immediate justice against those responsible.
Even Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni couldn’t stay silent. During a session in the Chamber before the European Council, she acknowledged the “horrible and inhuman death” of Satnam Singh.
Who Was Satnam Singh?
Satnam Singh, just 31 years old, hailed from Chand Nawan village in Punjab. He and his wife worked in the strawberry fields of Latina, Italy. Things took a tragic turn when his arm got caught in a plastic fruit-wrapping machine. Instead of rushing him to a hospital, his boss allegedly tossed him in a minivan and dumped him outside his house.
His wife, who also worked in the fields, desperately sought help from neighbors. They managed to get him an ambulance, and Satnam was airlifted to a hospital. Unfortunately, he lost too much blood and passed away.
Singh’s family is now demanding justice and asking for his body to be brought back to his hometown.
Protests Over Immigrant Rights
Singh’s death didn’t just shake his family; it caused a wave of protests in Italy. People are outraged, questioning labor rights and protections for migrant workers in the country. The protests have also raised concerns about gangmastering, which is rampant in certain parts of Italy. Singh’s employer is now facing charges of negligent manslaughter.
“These are inhumane acts that don’t represent Italian values,”
said Prime Minister Meloni. “I hope those responsible for this barbarity are punished to the fullest extent.”