Indian farmworker Satnam Singh tragically passed away on June 19 in Rome after a severe accident with farm machinery near Latina. He was abandoned in the street by his employers, leading to his death.
Satnam Singh, a 31-year-old farmworker from India, lost his right arm in a farm accident while working in Borgo Santa Maria, near Latina, south of Rome. Despite the critical nature of his injuries, Singh’s employers did not call for medical help. Instead, they transported him to his home and left him there. His family, upon discovering his condition, called emergency services. Singh was taken by helicopter to Rome’s San Camillo hospital, but he succumbed to his injuries on the morning of June 19.
The machinery accident occurred while Singh was operating equipment for wrapping fruit, owned by the Lovato agricultural business. His severed arm was left on a fruit collection basket near the accident site. The company’s owner, already under investigation for negligence and failure to assist, now faces potential manslaughter charges.
Singh’s death has sparked significant outrage. Authorities, including the Carabinieri police in Latina led by Major Paolo Perrone, are investigating the circumstances, especially whether the delay in seeking medical help was because Singh lacked a regular contract or residence permit. Singh and his wife, who also worked for the same company, had been employed there for two years, enduring harsh working conditions common among many Indian farmworkers in southern Lazio.
Public reaction to Singh’s death has been strong. The Lazio region has committed to joining judicial proceedings against those responsible and will cover Singh’s funeral costs. They have also called for an urgent meeting with local unions to address workplace safety, especially given the looming heatwaves that could further endanger farmworkers.
Mayor Matilde Celentano of Latina has expressed her intention to join the lawsuit and has called for a day of mourning in honor of Singh. The case has highlighted the ongoing issue of worker exploitation in Italy, where many are subjected to harsh, slave-like conditions.
In a statement, Mauro Destefano from EMERGENCY, a humanitarian organization, condemned Singh’s treatment as “modern slavery” and a manifestation of “exploitation and racism” prevalent in many parts of Italy. The farmers’ union Coldiretti has demanded strict measures against the black labour market and worker exploitation, which undercuts legitimate businesses.
Labour unions CGIL and UIL have called for immediate action on workplace safety, labeling it an urgent crisis. CISL emphasized the need for dignity and security for all workers. Opposition parties, including the Democratic Party (PD) and Five-Star Movement (M5S), decried the incident as a “beastly act” and a critical point of concern.
Labour Minister Marina Calderone denounced the incident as a “barbaric act” and assured the government’s full support to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.