Naveen Patnaik Slams Odisha Government Over Delayed Evacuation of Migrant Workers
Leader of the opposition and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) president Naveen Patnaik on Tuesday launched a scathing attack on the Odisha state government, alleging that its lack of urgency in evacuating migrant workers stranded in West Asia has severely worsened their plight. This criticism has drawn sharp flak from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), sparking a political row.
Patnaik Highlights Plight of Stranded Odias in Conflict Zone
Taking to social media platform X, the former chief minister detailed the dire situation faced by several Odias currently trapped in the conflict-affected region. He pointed out that with air routes closed, flights cancelled, and borders shut, these individuals are in a state of extreme distress.
"From labourers to students, professionals, tourists, and travellers, they are all extremely terrified," Patnaik wrote in his post. "Even their families and loved ones back in Odisha are sitting there, anxiously awaiting their return."
Patnaik emphasized that the state government's delayed response and insufficient action have compounded the crisis, leaving many vulnerable citizens without immediate assistance or a clear path to safety.
BJP Hits Back, Accuses Patnaik of Political Posturing
Responding swiftly to the criticism, BJP spokesperson Manoj Kumar Mohapatra countered Patnaik's allegations by highlighting the central government's track record in evacuation efforts during international crises.
"It is a fact that during crises such as Covid-19, the Ukraine-Russia war, and the Gulf conflict, Prime Minister Narendra Modi facilitated the safe evacuation of Indians stranded abroad," Mohapatra stated. "Even Naveen Patnaik had earlier praised him for these efforts."
Mohapatra further suggested that Patnaik's statements appear to be an attempt to divert attention from internal party issues. "The statements made by Naveen today seem to be an effort to cover up the reality that his own party is no longer in his control," he added, implying political motivations behind the criticism.
Context of the West Asia Conflict and Its Impact
The evacuation concerns arise amid heightened tensions in West Asia, particularly involving the Israel-Iran conflict. Recent developments include:
- Attacks on the UAE embassy in Iraq.
- Hezbollah drone strikes targeting Israel.
- Disruptions in commercial LPG supply affecting hotels in major cities.
- Formation of government panels to address supply chain issues.
These events have raised questions about the impact on India's oil, LPG, and LNG supplies, with experts analyzing potential effects on petrol, diesel prices, and overall energy security. The stranded migrant workers, many employed in sectors like construction and hospitality, face additional risks due to these geopolitical and economic disruptions.
The political exchange underscores the ongoing challenges in coordinating state and central efforts for citizen safety abroad, with both parties leveraging the issue for political traction ahead of upcoming elections.
