Sudan clashes: Jaishankar slams Cong for attempt to politicize issue of stranded Indians
New Delhi, April 18: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar blasted Congress on Tuesday for politicising the issue of Indians stranded in Sudan amid violence between its military and paramilitary force.
"Simply appalled at your tweet! There are lives at stake; don't do politics. Since the fighting started on April 14th, the Embassy of India in Khartoum has been continuously in touch with most Indian Nationals and PIOs in Sudan," tweeted Jaishankar.
This comes in response to Congress leader Siddaramaiah's tweet that about 31 tribals from Karnataka are stranded in the African country amid the violence between Sudan's military and the country's main paramilitary force.
"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," Siddaramaiah said on Twitter.
He stated that Hakki Pikkis in Sudan had been stranded without food for several days and that the government has yet to take 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," Siddaramaiah added.
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In response to the tweets, Jaishankar slammed Siddaramaiah for disclosing the details and locations of the Hakki Pikki tribe, which could jeopardise their safety.
"Their details and locations cannot be made public for security reasons. Their movement is constrained by fierce fighting that is ongoing. 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. It is grossly irresponsible of you to politicize their situation. No electoral goal justifies endangering Indians abroad," Jaishankar said on Twitter.
Meanwhile, Siddaramaiah said on Twitter, "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 peace in the region."
Congress spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala also attacked the Centre and the Karnataka government, accusing them of abandoning tribals "to their fate."
"31 Kannadigas of Hakki Pikki Tribe have been left stranded in the civil war in Sudan. The Anti-Kannadiga Modi Govt has left them to their fate, instead of evacuating & ensuring their safe return. Where are Mr Prahlad Joshi & Shobha Karandlaje & BJP MPs? Shame on you Mr Bommai," Surjewala said.
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- ANI
