Naveen Seeks Evacuation of Odias from West Asia

Bhubaneswar: Leader of the Opposition and BJD president Naveen Patnaik on Monday urged the Centre to take immediate steps to evacuate Odias stranded in West Asia following disruption of air services due to the escalating military conflict in the region.

In a post on X, Patnaik said the intensifying crisis in the Middle East has left several people from Odisha — including migrant workers, professionals, students and tourists — stranded and facing uncertainty. “With disruption of air connectivity, many people are facing grave uncertainty. Their safety and well-being are at risk, and they look to the nation for urgent support,” he stated.

Tagging External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Patnaik appealed to the Government of India to ensure the safe evacuation and return of all Odias caught in the conflict zone. He said prompt action would not only safeguard lives but also provide reassurance to anxious families in Odisha awaiting news about their loved ones.

Although the exact number of Odias stranded in Iran and other Gulf countries remains unclear, officials said several non-resident Odias in Dubai, Doha and Manama have contacted their families to inform them of their safety. However, the overall situation remains tense amid continued hostilities.

The conflict escalated after reported military strikes on Iran by the United States and Israel, followed by retaliatory drone and missile attacks by Iran targeting Israel, US military installations in the Gulf, and strategic locations including Dubai. The developments have resulted in the suspension and cancellation of several international flights across the region.

Hundreds of Indians are currently stranded at major transit hubs such as Dubai and Doha airports, with many turning to social media to seek government assistance.

India has previously carried out large-scale evacuation missions to bring back its nationals from conflict-hit regions in West Asia. Families of those currently stranded are now hoping for similar intervention in the ongoing crisis.