Meet JP Singh, Man Behind John Abraham's The Diplomat, Who Rescued Uzma Ahmed From Pakistan | Exclusive
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Singh, then the Deputy High Commissioner, not only saved Ahmed who was forced into marriage at gunpoint but successfully averted a diplomatic crisis between India and Pakistan
JP Singh with actor John Abraham who will play him in the movie The Diplomat. (News18)
John Abraham’s latest movie The Diplomat shines a light on the career of JP Singh, a seasoned Indian Foreign Service officer, by depicting one of his most challenging cases: the Uzma Ahmed case.
In 2017, Uzma Ahmed, a young woman from Delhi, found herself trapped in a dangerous situation in Pakistan after traveling there to meet Taher Ali, a man she had met online. Uzma alleged that Taher forced her into marriage at gunpoint, held her captive, and subjected her to harassment and drugging. Her harrowing ordeal took an even darker turn when she discovered that Taher was already married.
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Desperate and fearing for her life, Uzma managed to escape and sought refuge at the Indian High Commission in Islamabad. Sources reveal that she arrived at the High Commission’s doorstep, pleading for help. This was a critical moment for JP Singh, then Deputy High Commissioner, who made the crucial decision to provide Uzma with refuge inside the embassy, a space considered sovereign Indian territory. Providing her with a safe haven, CISF protection, and ensuring her well-being became his top priority.
Uzma’s case quickly escalated into a diplomatic crisis due to the historically fraught relationship between India and Pakistan. Accusations against a Pakistani citizen had the potential to ignite tensions between the two nations. Singh found himself walking a tightrope, balancing Uzma’s safety and rights with the need to maintain diplomatic channels. He remained in constant contact with his Pakistani counterparts in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, navigating the complexities of the situation.
Meanwhile, Taher Ali petitioned the Islamabad High Court, demanding Uzma’s presence in court and claiming she was his wife. From the safety of the Indian High Commission, Uzma filed a counter-petition, alleging she was coerced into the marriage and requesting permission to return to India.
During this high-stakes legal battle, Singh proved instrumental. He oversaw Uzma’s legal representation, appointed Pakistani lawyers, and meticulously prepared documentation to assert her rights. His presence at court hearings provided Uzma with much-needed moral and official support, ensuring a fair trial and keeping the international spotlight firmly on the case.
After weeks of tense legal proceedings, the Islamabad High Court ruled in Uzma’s favour, granting her permission to return to India. Singh orchestrated her safe passage back home, coordinating with Pakistani authorities to prevent any interference and ensuring a smooth transition. On May 25, 2017, Uzma crossed the Wagah border back into India.
Singh’s skillful handling of the Uzma Ahmed case highlighted his diplomatic acumen in navigating a politically sensitive situation and ensuring the safe return of an Indian citizen. His commitment to Uzma’s well-being under immense pressure is a testament to his dedication to serving his country.
When Singh returned to Delhi, he got a crucial posting as JS, PAI, in the Ministry of External Affairs where his role included starting backchannels with Taliban among other responsibilities.
Now, as the Indian Ambassador to Israel, Singh remains a key figure in international diplomacy, his career marked by his ability to navigate complex geopolitical challenges with both resolve and grace.
The diplomat, however, has refrained from commenting on the latest movie.
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