In the midst of Sudan’s escalating civil conflict, a 36-year-old Indian worker from Odisha has fallen into the hands of paramilitary rebels, prompting urgent diplomatic efforts for his safe return. Authorities in Khartoum are engaging in talks to free Adarsh Behera, seized by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in the besieged city of Al Fashir, according to reports that surfaced on November 3.
Sudan’s Ambassador to India, Mohammed Abdalla Ali Eltom, confirmed that his government is collaborating closely with India’s Ministry of External Affairs to resolve the crisis. Behera, hailing from Jagatsinghpur district, was reportedly snatched from Al Fashir—roughly 1,000 kilometers northwest of the capital—and possibly relocated to Nyala, a key RSF bastion in South Darfur, PTI reported.
Eltom, speaking to PTI, reflected on prior Indian outreach during a prolonged urban siege elsewhere in Sudan, where another citizen weathered 500 harrowing days under duress. “The situation remains very unpredictable,” the envoy cautioned, adding, “We kind of know what we need to do. And we have seen what they (RSF) are capable of doing. We hope that he will be treated well. And we hope that we can see him coming back safely soon.”
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Behera had been employed since 2022 at the Sukarati Plastic Factory in Sudan, his family informed NDTV. His spouse, Susmita, shared that they have two young children, aged eight and three. A family-provided video captured Behera seated on the ground, hands clasped in plea: “I am here in Al Fashir where the situation is very bad. I have been living here for two years with great difficulty. My family and children are very worried. I request the state (Odisha) government to help me,” he stated, as quoted by NDTV.
The abduction coincides with the RSF’s recent seizure of Al Fashir, igniting renewed clashes and widespread displacement in North Darfur. The group solidified its grip on western Darfur last week, expelling Sudanese Army forces after an 18-month standoff.
Amid the turmoil, Eltom underscored the enduring bond between Sudan and India. “Our relations with India are long-standing and deeply rooted. India has always been an important partner to Sudan—in times of peace and in times of war. During this ongoing crisis, India has extended humanitarian assistance to Sudan and continues to do so,” he noted. New Delhi’s contributions of medical supplies and food provisions have been met with profound gratitude.
Looking ahead, Eltom envisioned expansive collaboration once hostilities cease. “The potential for cooperation between our two countries is vast. Once Sudan enters the reconstruction phase after the war, we believe India can play a significant role as a development partner.”
Addressing unverified media speculation about a prospective military pact between Sudan and Pakistan—India’s regional adversary—Eltom dismissed it as unsubstantiated. “I have seen those reports, but they appear to be media claims without official confirmation. As of now, I cannot verify or confirm such reports. They may be based on speculation or influenced by certain political agendas.”
As negotiations press forward, the fate of Behera hangs in the balance, emblematic of the human toll exacted by Sudan’s relentless strife.
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