Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru
Bengaluru, Mar 2: As the geopolitical conflict in the Middle East continues to escalate, chief minister Siddaramaiah confirmed on Monday, March 2, that 109 people from the state are currently stranded in the UAE and Bahrain. The disruptions follow the closure of airspace and widespread flight cancellations in the region.
According to the latest data, approximately 100 Kannadigas are stuck in the UAE, primarily in Dubai, while 9 others are stranded in Bahrain. The chief minister emphasized that the safety of every citizen abroad is the government's "highest priority" and that teams are in constant contact to verify details and extend necessary assistance.
Legislators and tourists among stranded
Among those unable to return are several high-profile figures, including JD(S) MLC S.L. Bhojegowda, who is currently staying at a hotel in Dubai. Other stranded legislators include MLAs Na Ra Bharath Reddy, S R Srinivas, and A C Srinivas.
District-wise figures indicate that Ballari has the highest number of stranded individuals at 32, followed by Bengaluru with 25. Other affected residents hail from Davangere, Chikkamagaluru, Kodagu, and Udupi, among other districts. A group of 150 students from Chikkaballapur, who were on vacation in Dubai, are also reportedly among those awaiting travel clearance.
Government seeks central intervention
Chief minister Siddaramaiah stated that the Karnataka Chief Secretary has written to the Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of Civil Aviation seeking urgent intervention for the safe repatriation of the stranded citizens. The state has also requested airlines to provide flexibility in ticket rescheduling and ensure adequate return flights once operations resume.
The State Emergency Operations Centre (SEOC) and all District Emergency Operations Centres (DEOCs) remain activated 24x7 to monitor the situation. A dedicated helpline has been operationalized to assist affected families.
Appeal for calm
The chief minister urged those stranded to remain calm and strictly follow advisories issued by local authorities and Indian embassies. He advised affected persons to register with the nearest embassy or consulate through official helpline numbers.
Earlier, Siddaramaiah condemned the ongoing military strikes in the region, calling for peace and expressing hope that flight operations would be cleared soon to ensure everyone's safe return.