Statement on the killing of Indian in Afghanistan

An employee of the Border Roads Organization, Maniyappan Raman Kutty, was abducted by the Taliban in Afghanistan on November 19, 2005 and subsequently killed on November 23. Presented below is a statement by the Ministry of External Affairs on the incident:

On the Indian abducted in Afghanistan

23/11/2005

We have just received a report from Delaram in Afghanistan that Shri Maniyappan Raman Kutty of the Border Roads Organization, working on the Zaranj-Delaram road project in Afghanistan has been killed by his abductors.

It will be recalled that Maniyappan Raman Kutty along with three Afghan nationals had been abducted on 19 November 2005. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the abduction. We strongly condemn this inhuman and barbaric act against an innocent person. The Taliban and its backers bear the responsibility for the consequences of this outrageous act. We earnestly hope that the perpetrators will be brought to justice swiftly.

The Government of India expresses deep shock and profound grief at the tragic death of one of its citizens who was working on an India-Afghan Friendship project with utmost devotion and diligence. His untimely death is a loss to the Border Roads Organization and to the country, which salutes the ultimate sacrifice he has made to the cause of India-Afghan friendship. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family members and assure them that no stone will be left unturned, to ensure their livelihood and security. The family will receive a total of Rs. 10 lakhs as compensation and benefits, with free education to the secondary level for Shri Raman Kutty’s two children.

Since the abduction was confirmed, the Government of India has made every effort possible to seek his safe release in cooperation with Afghan authorities. The Government also worked with its own network of contacts in Afghanistan to this end. Unfortunately, these did not prove of much avail.

The Border Roads Organization is engaged in building a road in Afghanistan that is vital for its development and the welfare of its people. It is inconceivable that anybody should be opposed to it and threaten those working on it.

Government of India remains firmly committed to assisting the Government and people of Afghanistan in their quest for economic development and building a stable and prosperous country. Government is in touch with Afghan authorities to ensure the safety of all Indians in Afghanistan. The Cabinet Secretary has also reviewed the security arrangements with concerned Ministries and agencies, to ensure the safety of all Indian nationals in Afghanistan.

New Delhi

November 23, 2005

Source: Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, New Delhi.