Karnataka CM Urges PM Modi for Immediate Action on Safety of Indians in Middle East

Karnataka's Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has called on Prime Minister Modi to take immediate action to protect Indian citizens, particularly Kannada speakers, amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. In a letter, he expressed concerns over airspace restrictions affecting international flights, leaving many stranded, especially in the UAE. The Chief Minister emphasized the need for enhanced diplomatic efforts and coordinated assistance to ensure the safe return of affected individuals. With the security situation worsening, he highlighted the uncertainty faced by families in Karnataka and across India. The government is already coordinating with relevant ministries to address these challenges.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 2, 2026, 19:16 IST

Call for Urgent Measures to Protect Indian Citizens

On Monday, Karnataka's Chief Minister Siddaramaiah reached out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging for swift actions to ensure the safety of Kannada-speaking individuals and other Indian nationals affected by escalating tensions in the Middle East. In a post shared on X, Siddaramaiah mentioned that he has written to the Prime Minister requesting immediate measures to safeguard these citizens. He emphasized the need to enhance diplomatic efforts, arrange special repatriation flights if necessary, and provide coordinated assistance through embassies and airlines. Karnataka is fully prepared to support the safe return of its people.

In his letter to PM Modi, the Chief Minister expressed concerns regarding recent airspace restrictions and NOTAMs (Notice to Airmen) issued by several countries in West Asia, which have disrupted international flight operations. He pointed out that these developments have left a significant number of Kannada speakers and other Indian citizens stranded, particularly at major transit hubs like the UAE (Dubai).

The letter highlighted that, according to recent advisories from the Ministry of Civil Aviation, numerous countries in West Asia have imposed airspace restrictions and issued NOTAMs, leading to severe disruptions in international flight operations. As a result, many Kannada-speaking and other Indian nationals are currently trapped, especially in key transit locations such as the UAE (Dubai). The Chief Minister noted that the deteriorating security situation, which includes hostilities and the closure of civilian airspace, has created widespread uncertainty and distress among affected individuals and their families across Karnataka and India.

Furthermore, he stated that the Chief Secretary's office has already coordinated with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to explore measures for the safety and repatriation of Indian citizens, while the Ministry of Civil Aviation has been tasked with working alongside airlines to facilitate flexible rescheduling, waiving penalties, and providing interim assistance to stranded passengers.