Amid rising geopolitical friction in West Asia involving the US, Israel, and Iran, Karnataka’s leadership is leaving nothing to chance. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah convened a briefing on Monday to outline the state’s response, placing the welfare of Kannada-speaking expatriates at the top of the agenda.
Flight cancellations and airspace closures have left approximately 100 individuals from Karnataka unable to leave UAE hubs like Dubai, with an additional nine caught in Bahrain. These stark numbers underscore the human impact of the conflict.
State machinery is in overdrive. Dedicated teams liaise round-the-clock with those affected, gathering real-time data to expedite relief. Emergency operations centres at state and district levels are fully operational, syncing efforts with national ministries and diplomatic outposts.
Key actions include letters from the Chief Secretary to the central government, pressing for protection protocols and repatriation logistics. Airlines have been formally requested to prioritize return services and extend support.
In a direct appeal, Siddaramaiah called on stranded Kannadigas to remain composed, adhere to embassy guidelines, and register promptly via helplines. The administration is systematically addressing every plea.
District-wise, UAE strandees hail predominantly from Ballari (32) and Bengaluru (25), with Davangere contributing 9, Chikkamagaluru 5, Vijayapura and Madikeri 4 each, Shivamogga, Raichur, Mangaluru 3 each, and others in single digits or pending identification.
Bahrain’s group includes four from Hassan, three from Udupi, one from Madikeri, and one untraced.
The government’s resolve is unwavering: every resource will be marshalled to safeguard and bring home Karnataka’s global family.