The incidents of fraud involving the youth seeking employment abroad continue to surface. Lured by promises of a better future, many travel overseas only to face exploitation, non-payment of wages and, in extreme cases, unlawful detention. A similar case recently emerged from Russia, where three youths from Punjab were stranded. They have now safely returned to India due to timely intervention.The youths belong to Jalandhar, Mohali, and Tarn Taran districts. One of them, Ashok Kumar from Nakodar, visited Nirmal Kutiya in Sultanpur Lodhi to express gratitude to MP Sant Balbir Singh Seechewal for his efforts in securing their release and safe return.Sharing his ordeal, Ashok Kumar described the 22 days spent in detention as “equivalent to 22 centuries.” He stated that he had lost all hope of rescue during that time. According to him, prisoners were provided minimal food — just enough to survive — and were allegedly subjected to harsh treatment, including electric shocks.He further alleged that the food served in jail caused extreme drowsiness within 30 minutes of consumption, making it difficult to stay awake, and that he still feels lingering effects, suggesting possible administration of unknown substances.Ashok revealed that he had travelled to Moscow on January 19 after paying approximately ₹3 lakh to a travel agent, who had promised a monthly salary of ₹90,000–₹1 lakh, along with accommodation, meals, and a one-year job guarantee. However, upon arrival, these assurances proved false.After working for nearly two months, when salary payment was due on March 20, the company owner reportedly handed him and his colleagues over to the police on the night of March 13. During detention, he survived for seven days solely on water. He also claimed that nearly 100 Indians are still confined in a major Russian prison under similar circumstances.Seechewal has urged the youth to remain vigilant and avoid falling prey to fraudulent travel agents. He emphasised the importance of engaging only licensed and registered agents for overseas employment. He also warned that, in some cases, agents exploit individuals abroad by holding them captive and extorting money from their families through coercion.He reiterated that while seeking opportunities abroad is not wrong, it must be pursued through legal and verified channels.Ashok’s family had approached Sant Seechewal on March 29. Following his intervention and with the support from the Ministry of External Affairs, Ashok safely returned to India on April 1.====22 days like 22 centuries: AshokThe 22 days spent in detention was equivalent to 22 centuries. I had lost all hope of rescue during that time. We were provided minimal food — just enough to survive — and were subjected to harsh treatment, including electric shocks. Ashok Kumar, Russia returnee