External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj has said that 41 Indians who were taken captive in Iraq are safe.

She said although the government is not directly in touch with the captive Indians, various sources have confirmed their well being.

The Minister was replying to a calling attention motion in the Lok Sabha today on the situation arising out of Indians stranded in Iraq.

She said New Delhi remains deeply concerned about the on-going conflict and deteriorating security scenario in Iraq.

She suggested for an appeal by the House to the captors of Indians.

She said their release during the ongoing holy month of Ramzaan can be a festive gift to India.

She said that an estimated 22,000 Indians were in Iraq at the onset of the conflict.