Assam Government Seeks Information on Residents in West Asia Amid Conflict

Assam's Efforts to Connect with Residents in West Asia

Guwahati, Mar 1: The government of Assam is actively coordinating with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to obtain details about individuals from the state who are either living or stranded in West Asia.

A senior government official mentioned on Sunday that the current data regarding the number of Assam residents in the conflict-affected area is not available.

"We are in continuous communication with the MEA to collect information about Assam's residents in West Asia," the official, who preferred to remain unnamed, stated.

"At this moment, we are still in the data collection phase and will provide updates as soon as we have more information," he added.

Many individuals from Assam are employed in various sectors in West Asia, such as aviation and business, although specific statistics are not readily accessible.

Due to the recent flight cancellations stemming from the escalating security issues in the Middle East, India has advised foreign nationals within its borders to reach out to the appropriate authorities for visa extensions.

The MEA has released an advisory aimed at foreign nationals affected by these travel disruptions.

The advisory encourages foreign nationals to get in touch with their nearest Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) if they need help with visa extensions or wish to regularize their stay.

"All foreign nationals in India who have had to alter their travel plans due to the ongoing situation in West Asia and require assistance with visa extensions or regularizing their stay are urged to contact the nearest FRRO," the advisory stated.

On Saturday, the United States and Israel initiated a significant military operation against Iran, resulting in the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei early Sunday.