Fr Tom Uzhunnalil Reaches India, Meets PM Narendra Modi

Fr Tom Uzhunnalil meets PM Narendra Modi on Thursday, September 28, 2017. (PMO Twitter)

Fr Tom Uzhunnalil, who was recently rescued from the captivity of the Islamic State, has reached New Delhi and has met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Sept. 28.

Soon after his arrival, the Kerala priest thanked God for his rescue from Yemen, where he was kept in captivity for 18 months.

"I am very happy, I thank the almighty for making this day possible. All people who have worked in their own ways, I am grateful," said Uzhunnalil, according to Wion.

After securing his freedom, he was taken to Vatican to recover his health.

"I had sufficient time to sleep. I did my prayers and even carried out the holy mass, when they were not in the room. Though bread and wine were not available, I prayed and God was providing spiritual bread and wine to me," said Uzhunnalil.

He also thanked the Indian government for its efforts to secure his release.

"I am thankful to the President and the Prime Minister and all the ministers concerned whoever has (expressed) concern," he said.

"Thanks to the country leaders and countrymen. May God bless all of them for their response," he added.

He will now fly to Bengaluru to spend a few days with the Salesians Congregation, to which he belongs.