Chandigarh, March 5: Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has directed the immediate deployment of a high-level task force to monitor the safety of Punjabis residing in the Middle East. The move follows growing concerns over the escalating hostilities in the region, prompting the state to set up a permanent communication link for affected families.
The government has designated Vimal Setia, Secretary of Home Affairs, to act as the primary Nodal Officer. He will be responsible for tracking the measures undertaken by the Government of India and ensuring that the specific needs of Punjabi nationals are addressed. ADGP RK Jaiswal will supervise the newly formed 24×7 helpline to manage the influx of information from the ground.
“The sole aim is to extend necessary assistance and support to them and their families in this hour of grave and unforeseen crisis,” Chief Minister Mann asserted.
The state leadership affirmed that the safety of every Punjabi abroad is a paramount concern. Mr. Mann stated that the local administration would act as a bridge between the families in Punjab and the diplomatic missions in the Middle East to ensure a “hassle-free” return for those seeking evacuation.
“The Punjab Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, is committed to extending all possible support to Punjabis during this grave crisis,” an official spokesperson affirmed.
The Home Department noted that the Nodal Officer will provide regular updates on the security situation and the status of Indian nationals. Officials declared that the state’s intervention is intended to provide a sense of security to families who are increasingly anxious about the safety of their loved ones in the Gulf.
