New Delhi:External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, Tuesday slammed Congress leader Siddaramaiah for "politicizing" the situation of 31 stranded tribals from Karnataka in Sudan.
Siddaramaiah had alleged government inaction and negligence towards the Hakki Pikkis, who were stranded without food. "It is reported that 31 people from Karnataka belonging to Hakki Pikki tribe, are stranded in Sudan which is troubled by civil war. I urge @PMOIndia @narendramodi, @HMOIndia, @MEAIndia and @BSBommai to immediately intervene & ensure their safe return.
Hakki Pikkis in Sudan are left stranded without food since the last few days & the govt is yet to initiate action to bring them back. @BJP4India govt should immediately open diplomatic discussions & reach out to international agencies to ensure the well-being of Hakki Pikkis. It is also unfortunate to know that we have lost one Indian & 60 others in the ongoing civil war in Sudan. My deepest condolences to their families and pray for the peace in the region," Siddaramaiah wrote in a series of tweets.
In response, Jaishankar criticized Siddaramaiah's remarks and urged him not to endanger the lives of Indians abroad for electoral gain. "It is grossly irresponsible of you to politicize their situation. No electoral goal justifies endangering Indians abroad." "Simply appalled at your tweet! There are lives at stake; don't do politics," he wrote in another tweet denouncing Siddaramaiah's remarks.
Jaishankar also posted a thread detailing the centre's efforts in Sudan, where rival factions of the ruling military regime have been battling for control of the African nation. "Their details and locations cannot be made public for security reasons. Their movement is constrained by fierce fighting that is ongoing, he said, adding, "Plans regarding them have to take into account a very complicated security scenario. The Embassy is in constant touch with the Ministry in that regard."
The Ministry of External Affairs has established a Control Room to provide information and assistance to Indians in light of the clashes between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The fighting has led to at least 185 deaths and over 1,800 injuries, with millions of people trapped in their homes or shelters. Hospitals have been forced to shut down, and supplies are running low. Both sides are using heavy weapons in densely populated areas, causing significant damage and loss of life.
Also read: Sudan's army and rival force battle, killing at least 56
