Odisha CM Seeks Safe Return of Stranded Odias from West Asia

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has held discussions with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to ensure the safe return of Odias stranded in West Asia, Law, Works and Excise Minister Prithviraj Harichandan said on Sunday.

Responding to media queries regarding the evacuation process from conflict-hit regions, Harichandan stated that the Chief Minister has taken up the matter with the MEA and expressed confidence that people from the State will return home safely very soon.

The minister further said that the Prime Minister and the MEA have initiated all necessary measures to evacuate Indian citizens from the war-affected zones. He assured that comprehensive plans are in place and the process is moving as scheduled. Emphasising the Centre’s commitment, he said no Indian citizen would be left behind.

The evacuation efforts come in the wake of a major attack by the United States and Israel on Iran on Saturday, which reportedly led to the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei early Sunday. The escalation has triggered heightened tensions across the region.

Air travel across West Asia and several other countries, including India, has been significantly disrupted due to airspace restrictions following the joint attack and Iran’s retaliatory strikes.

The Odisha government is closely monitoring developments and coordinating with the MEA to facilitate the safe return of stranded Odias. According to the minister, priority is being given to those in immediate danger, and evacuation flights are expected to commence shortly.