Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj denied reports that all 39 Indians abducted in war-torn Iraq had been killed by the terror group Islamic State or the ISIS.
Swarj said, “I did not believe Harjit Masih’s claims that 39 Indians were killed,” and added, “I’ve met family members of Indian nationals who are stranded in Iraq, had discussions with them.”
The Minister further said that eight sources had confirmed to them that the Indians were are alive.
“Harjit Masih is claiming that all of them are dead, but I do not believe him, will continue with search” Swaraj reiterated.
Talking to reporters in the national capital, Swaraj also said that earlier she had six sources but now she had two more. “Eighth source is reliable, there’s no point in doubting my source. There is only (Masih) who is saying they are dead, whereas eight sources are claiming they are alive,” she said.
One of the 40 men, Masih, who had been abducted by the ISIS last year returned to India after escaping from ISIS’ clutches in Iraq.
According to him the militant group had killed rest of the 39 Indians.
