Chandigarh, March 2 Amid escalating conflict in parts of the Middle East, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann announced a 24-hour helpline on Monday to assist stranded Punjabis, asking families to call 0172 2260042, 0172 2260043, or WhatsApp +91 94787 79112 for immediate assistance.
He stated that the state government is in constant contact with the Government of India to ensure their safe and prompt return, and that Punjab will provide full support and cooperation to those affected.
Assuring full support and cooperation to the distressed families of Punjabis stranded in the conflict-ridden Middle East, CM Mann said, "The state government is constantly in touch with the Government of India (GoI) to ensure the safe and prompt return of those stranded.
Due to the outbreak of conflicts in Arab countries, many Punjabis in these nations are facing serious difficulties.
"The Punjab government has set up a helpline. If any person or their family is stranded in these countries, they can call on these numbers." He assured full backing to those in distress and announced that a dedicated helpline and control room has been set up and will operate 24x7, adding, "People can call or send a WhatsApp message, if any kind of help is required."
He also urged the Government of India to intervene for the safe evacuation of Punjabis stranded in the Middle East, adding that he hopes the Union government will take necessary steps to extend a helping hand to all those trapped in the war-hit Gulf region.
A day earlier, Lok Sabha Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene immediately to ensure the safe evacuation of Indians stranded at Dubai Airport and various Arab countries.
He stressed that in times of international crisis, prompt action is essential to ensure that no Indian is left without support. The safety, security, and dignity of every Indian abroad must remain the foremost responsibility of the Central government, he added.