Bhubaneswar: In response to the escalating conflict in West Asia, the Odisha government has constituted a dedicated working group to closely monitor the situation in the war-torn region and coordinate the safe evacuation of Odia residents stranded across various countries there.
The working group, comprising officials from Home and Labour departments, directorate of Odisha Paribar and Protector of Emigrants working for Odia people residing in those countries, will monitor the situation closely and provide support to affected Odias. Pritish Panda has been designated as the Nodal Officer for Odisha Mo Parivar to handle information and assistance requests.
“Keeping in view the wartime emergency situation in West Asia, a high-level meeting has been held. In this context, a working group has been formed jointly by the Odisha government with Odisha Paribar, the State Home Department, the State Labour Directorate, and various Resident Indian organisations for assistance and information,” Sports and Youth Services Minister Suryabanshi Suraj shared through a post late last night.
He also provided three emergency contact numbers to use in any adverse situation.
Ministry of External Affairs – 80046342
WhatsApp No. – 971543090571
Odisha Paribar Independent Nodal Officer – 9583321964
In addition, the Offices of the Consul General of India in various Middle Eastern countries have issued toll-free contact numbers accessible to individuals from Odisha. All such requests for assistance from Odia nationals/residents will be systematically referred to the working group for prompt and appropriate action.
The high-level meeting, which was held on Monday, Focussed on assessing the situation of Odia expatriates working or residing in Gulf countries and West Asia, many of whom are employed in sectors vulnerable to regional disruptions such as airspace closures, flight cancellations, and attacks on infrastructure.
The session was chaired by Chief Secretary Anu Garg, following directives from Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi. Officials emphasised the need for proactive preparedness and immediate steps to ensure their well-being.
Garg advised all relevant departments to remain vigilant, maintain readiness, and take necessary measures based on the evolving circumstances.
Director General of Police (DGP) YB Khurania, who attended the meeting, stated that the situation is being monitored very closely, with all officials concerned placed on high alert. “Necessary actions are being taken, and the overall situation remains under control. Authorities are strictly monitoring social media posts and responding firmly to any emergency-related developments,” he added.
On Sunday, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi held discussions with the central government to secure the safe return of Odia residents currently living in or stranded in the war-torn Middle East amid the escalating regional conflict. The following day, BJD president and Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik also urged the Centre, along with External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, to take immediate and urgent steps for the safe evacuation and repatriation of all Odias caught in the crossfire, emphasising the need to protect migrant workers, professionals, students, and others facing uncertainty due to disrupted air connectivity and heightened risks.
