Odisha Chief Minister Coordinates with Central Government for Safe Return of Odias from West Asia Conflict Zone
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi is actively engaged in discussions with the central government to facilitate the safe evacuation of Odias stranded in the conflict-affected regions of West Asia, according to a statement by Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan on Sunday. This initiative follows the recent escalation of tensions due to US-Israel strikes in Iran, which have triggered attacks across key Gulf nations.
Central Government's Focus on Evacuation Efforts
The central government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi have placed special emphasis on ensuring the safe return of all Indians, including Odias, who are trapped in West Asia amidst the ongoing unrest, Harichandan informed mediapersons in Bhubaneswar. He elaborated that Chief Minister Majhi has already communicated with the Ministry of External Affairs regarding the repatriation of stranded Odias, assuring that all necessary measures will be implemented, similar to previous emergency situations, to prevent any Odia from being caught in the turmoil.
Uncertain Numbers but Growing Anxiety Among Odia Diaspora
While the precise count of Odias residing and stranded in Iran and major Gulf countries remains undetermined, non-resident Odias in Dubai (UAE), Doha (Qatar), and Manama (Bahrain) reported that although anxiety is mounting, the situation is largely under control despite drone and missile attacks. "In Dubai, the attacks targeted strategic locations," said Sudhashree Dash, an NRO. "We heard loud explosions and there were reports of debris in some areas, but daily life continues normally. Overall, things are stable, though concern is palpable."
Firsthand Accounts from Odias in Affected Areas
Another NRO, Biswajit Mallik, who works at an IT firm and lives near Jebel Ali port—which was struck by debris from an intercepted missile on Saturday—noted that several attacks were intercepted, and government advisories helped maintain order. "However, despite official warnings, some locals began hoarding water and essential supplies," he added.
In response to the crisis, schools have been closed and companies have transitioned to work-from-home arrangements. From Ganjam district alone, approximately 200 individuals are employed in West Asian countries, particularly in Doha and Abu Dhabi. Pitamber Behera and Krushna Charan Dakua from Kutharsingh and Bhaliagada in Rangeilunda block, who work as welders in Abu Dhabi, recounted staying awake throughout Saturday night due to missile sirens and explosions. "We witnessed three explosions at our worksite, with smoke plumes rising into the air. Our company declared a holiday today for safety reasons," Pitamber stated.
Community Efforts and Government Coordination
Arun Prahraj, President of Bahrain Odia Samaj, described the situation as volatile. On Saturday, when the US Navy base in Juffair was attacked, Prahraj relocated eight Odia families and a Tamil medical student from Juffair to his residence in Saar. "By evening, missiles and drones targeted residential areas in Saar, and we observed them being intercepted in the sky. We are in constant contact with the Indian ambassador, and the Bahrain government is prepared to evacuate if necessary," he explained.
The combined efforts of the Odisha state government, central authorities, and local community organizations underscore a proactive approach to safeguarding Odias abroad during this international crisis, with evacuation plans being prioritized to ensure their safe return home.
