Berhampur MP Appeals for Urgent Rescue of 24 Indians Trapped in Dubai Amidst West Asia Tensions
In a critical development, Berhampur Member of Parliament Pradeep Kumar Panigrahy has made an urgent appeal to Union External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, calling for the immediate rescue and safe evacuation of 24 Indian nationals who have been stranded in Dubai. This distressing situation has arisen due to the sudden closure of airspace following recent military escalations and heightened conflict in the West Asia region.
Families Stranded Amidst Conflict and Missile Strikes
The stranded group comprises individuals from eight distinct families, including vulnerable senior citizens and an 11-year-old child. They originally traveled to Dubai on February 25 for a planned holiday and were scheduled to return to India on March 2. However, with the abrupt flare-up of hostilities and the subsequent shutdown of airspace, their return has been indefinitely delayed, leaving them trapped in a volatile environment.
"They are living in constant fear due to repeated missile strikes and escalating violence," Panigrahy emphasized in his statement. "Their extended stay has not only caused severe financial strain but has also led to significant psychological distress as the security situation deteriorates with each passing day."
Direct Appeal to Government and MEA for Swift Action
Panigrahy, representing the Berhampur parliamentary constituency, revealed that the stranded families had directly contacted his office, pleading for urgent assistance to facilitate their safe evacuation. In response, he has formally reached out to the Government of India and the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), urging them to intervene promptly.
"I sincerely request the Government of India and the ministry of external affairs to look into this grave situation and ensure their safe return at the earliest possible opportunity," the MP stated. He has already dispatched a detailed request letter to External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, which includes comprehensive information about all the stranded individuals.
Ongoing Communication and Broader Concerns for Odia Workers
Panigrahy confirmed that he has maintained continuous communication with the affected families, offering reassurances that the Union government will take all necessary steps to secure their safe repatriation. This incident highlights a broader concern for Indian expatriates, particularly from Odisha, who are working in Gulf nations amidst the ongoing regional instability.
Earlier, the MP had written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, advocating for enhanced safety measures and protective protocols for Odias employed in Gulf countries such as Iran, Qatar, UAE, and Bahrain. It is estimated that hundreds of workers from districts like Ganjam and Gajapati, especially within the Berhampur constituency, are currently residing and working in these conflict-prone areas.
The appeal underscores the urgent need for diplomatic and logistical efforts to safeguard Indian citizens abroad during international crises, ensuring their well-being and secure return to homeland safety.
