Odia Youth Returns from Saudi Arabia After Minister’s Intervention

Jagatsinghpur youth Pralay Ranjan Mahapatra has safely returned to Odisha after being stranded in Saudi Arabia following the expiry of his work contract on April 30, 2026.

His employer allegedly refused to allow his return, prompting his mother, Pratima Sethy, to appeal to Odisha’s Industry, Skill Development & Technical Education Minister Samapad Chandra Swain.

Minister Swain immediately wrote to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), which coordinated with the Indian Embassy in Jeddah.

Diplomatic intervention secured Pralay’s final exit permit, and his employer provided an air ticket.

Pralay and his family met Minister Swain to express gratitude, also acknowledging the MEA and Indian Embassy’s role.

The family said his father’s health had worsened during the ordeal, making his return a huge relief.