J.P. Singh: The Diplomat Behind the Headlines — From High-Stakes Rescues to Global Diplomacy

The real-life inspiration behind The Diplomat, starring John Abraham, Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer J.P. Singh, has built a career navigating some of the most challenging diplomatic terrains. From handling India’s relations with volatile neighbours to orchestrating high-pressure rescue missions, Singh’s journey is a testament to courage and calculated diplomacy.

Who Is J.P. Singh?
J.P. Singh, a 2002-batch IFS officer, has spent decades shaping India’s foreign policy in some of the world’s most conflict-ridden regions. His career spans key postings in Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Iran, where he played pivotal roles in handling sensitive diplomatic affairs.

In Afghanistan, from 2008 to 2012, Singh served at a time when the Indian embassy in Kabul faced two devastating terrorist attacks. Undeterred by the risks, he worked tirelessly to uphold India’s diplomatic presence. From 2014 to 2019, Singh was stationed in Pakistan as India’s Deputy High Commissioner, where he navigated strained bilateral relations with skill and resolve. Later, as the Joint Secretary for the Pakistan-Afghanistan-Iran (PAI) division in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Singh spearheaded India’s diplomatic outreach with the Taliban after the fall of the Ashraf Ghani government.

The Uzma Ahmed Case: A Diplomatic Masterstroke
One of Singh’s most high-profile missions was the dramatic rescue of Uzma Ahmed, an Indian citizen trapped in Pakistan. In 2017, Uzma travelled to Pakistan to meet Tahir Ali, a man she met online, only to be forced into marriage at gunpoint. Seeking refuge at the Indian High Commission in Islamabad, her plea for help became a test of India’s diplomatic prowess.

As India’s Deputy High Commissioner, Singh carefully navigated the fragile India-Pakistan relations while leading the legal battle for Uzma’s release. After a tense court battle, Uzma was allowed to return to India on May 25, 2017, crossing the Wagah border and reclaiming her freedom. The successful mission not only brought Uzma home but also cemented Singh’s reputation as a diplomat who could deliver under pressure.

India’s Ambassador to Israel
In 2024, Singh was appointed as India’s Ambassador to Israel, a role that placed him at the forefront of strengthening India-Israel ties amid rising tensions in the Middle East. His extensive experience in handling conflict-ridden regions made him a fitting choice for the complex diplomatic landscape of the region.

As ambassador, Singh is tasked with bolstering bilateral cooperation across economic, security, and technological spheres while ensuring India’s strategic interests remain safeguarded.

From Real-Life Heroics to the Silver Screen
Singh’s remarkable career has now inspired the Bollywood film The Diplomat, with John Abraham portraying his daring diplomatic manoeuvres. The film shines a spotlight on the often-overlooked world of international diplomacy — a realm where strategy and courage intersect in high-stakes situations.

J.P. Singh’s journey serves as a reminder that diplomacy isn’t just about words; it’s about taking decisive action when lives hang in the balance. Whether negotiating with hostile regimes or orchestrating life-saving missions, Singh’s career exemplifies the essence of Indian diplomacy — resilience, strategy, and unwavering commitment.