4 youths stranded in Central Africa return to Odisha after BJP VP Jay Panda's intervention

Happiness was written large on the faces of four Odia youths who returned from Gabon after undergoing serious hardship for the last several months. The youths finally returned to their homes in Kendrapara district following the intervention of BJP National Vice-President and former Kendrapara MP, Baijayant 'Jay' Panda.

Panda had earlier brought the matter to the notice of Ambassador, Embassy of India at Democratic Republic of Congo and sought repatriation after the families of the four stranded youths approached his office for help.

The youths had reportedly gone to Gabon (Central Africa) on February 14, 2023 by Eutopia Airlines through an overseas manpower supplier in anticipation of more earnings. The youths were promised Rs 25000 remuneration per month in Indian currency along with food, lodging, and mobile recharge. However, the company reportedly didn't release a single penny to the youths even after working for nearly 3.5 months.

The company was also accused of delaying the final settlement by giving numerous excuses.

"Our parents had contacted Baijayant Panda and following his intervention, we have reached Odisha. We had gone to Gabon to work some five months back, but we were denied wages," said Subhrakant Pradhan, a resident of Rajnagar.

Another youth, Bidyadhar Pradhan said, "When we asked for our salary, the employer refused. Though we tried to return, we could not. We are happy that we have finally returned safely."