Exercise 'Strictest Vigilance': MEA Warns Indians Against Fake Job Offers in Iran

India on Friday urged its citizens to remain cautious while considering job opportunities in Iran, warning that several Indians have recently fallen victim to fraudulent employment offers that led to abductions and ransom demands.The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said it has received multiple reports of Indians being tricked into traveling to Iran with promises of jobs or onward employment in third countries."Upon reaching Iran, these Indian nationals have been kidnapped by criminal gangs and ransoms have been demanded from their families for securing their release," the MEA said in a statement.The ministry emphasised that Indians should be extremely careful about such offers. "In this context, all Indian citizens are strongly cautioned

to exercise the strictest vigilance regarding such employment promises or offers," it said.Officials also clarified that Iran’s visa-free entry policy for Indians applies strictly to tourism. "In particular, it may be noted that the government of Iran allows visa-free entry to Indians only for tourism purposes. Any agents promising visa-free entry into Iran for employment or other purposes may well be in connivance with criminal gangs," the MEA added.The advisory urged Indians not to fall prey to fraudulent job offers.