Bengaluru: The Karnataka government has appealed to the Centre for immediate intervention to safeguard and assist Kannadigas stranded in the Middle East amid intensifying regional tensions and large scale travel disruptions.
Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh, in separate letters to the Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of Civil Aviation, called for coordinated action to ensure the safety and potential repatriation of residents from Karnataka currently in the conflict affected region.
In her communication to Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Rajneesh highlighted the rapidly deteriorating geopolitical climate across West Asia, marked by hostilities, heightened military activity and airspace restrictions. She noted that the uncertainty has disrupted civil movement and triggered concern among Indian nationals across key hubs such as Dubai and other parts of the Gulf, where many Kannadigas are employed, studying, travelling or on official assignments.
The state requested Indian embassies and consulates to extend all necessary assistance to ensure the well being of those affected and to consider priority evacuation arrangements if required. Rajneesh also proposed a dedicated coordination channel between the Centre and the Karnataka government to enable timely information sharing.
In a separate appeal to Civil Aviation Secretary Samir Kumar Sinha, the Chief Secretary sought support for passengers unable to return due to cancelled or delayed flights. She urged the ministry to facilitate complimentary accommodation for stranded tourists with confirmed tickets, allow flexible rescheduling, and waive additional charges where possible.
The letter further requested that adequate flights be arranged promptly once conditions stabilise to ensure a smooth and safe return for affected travellers.
The Karnataka government assured full cooperation with central authorities to streamline relief measures and minimise distress faced by stranded individuals and their families.