India is coordinating with its partners in West Asia to safely bring back its citizens from Sudan, where fighting between the army and paramilitary forces has caused at least 185 deaths and 1,800 other injuries.
As the fighting continues for the fifth day, India has engaged in discussions with the “Quartet,” a group including Saudi Arabia, the US, the UK, and the UAE, all of whom have led peace efforts in Sudan. Indian External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar is reportedly in touch with his Quarter counterparts.
Saudi Arabia and the UAE have already reassured India that they will support its efforts.
Spoke to Foreign Minister of Saudi Arabia, HH @FaisalbinFarhan just now.
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) April 18, 2023
Appreciated his assessment of the Sudan situation. Will remain in close touch.
Meanwhile, the Indian government is in talks with the UN. It has also set up a control room to coordinate efforts and provide assistance and information.
Indians in Sudan
The website of the Indian embassy in Khartoum says that 2,800 Indians live in Sudan. In addition, 1,200 Indians have permanently settled and established a community in Sudan for over 150 years.
Most Indians living in Sudan work as professionals in key industries. UN missions and other international organisations have employed other Indian nationals.
It is reported that 31 people from Karnataka belonging to Hakki Pikki tribe, are stranded in Sudan which is troubled by civil war.
— Siddaramaiah (@siddaramaiah) April 18, 2023
I urge @PMOIndia @narendramodi, @HMOIndia, @MEAIndia and @BSBommai to immediately intervene & ensure their safe return.
The country also houses at least 31 members of Karnataka’s Hakki Pikki tribe.
On Tuesday, an advisory issued by the India External Affairs Ministry urged Indian nationals to refrain from venturing out, ration their supplies, and take their neighbours’ help to ensure safety. The Indian embassy in Khartoum also said there have been several reports of looting, and has predicted the situation to remain unsafe for a few more days.
According to sources quoted by Hindustan Times, the situation in Sudan continues to be “very tense,” making it difficult for people to move and travel to areas of relative calm. Nevertheless, India seeks to protect its citizens “wherever they are located.”
Advisory
— India in Sudan (@EoI_Khartoum) April 18, 2023
We have come across many instances of looting. All Indian nationals are advised please not to venture out. Please ration your supplies. The situation may continue for a few more days. Please try to take help from your neighbours. Please stay at home and remain safe
The official refused to divulge further information, given that it could compromise the security and safety of Indians in the war-torn country,
One Indian has already died in the cross-fighting.
Meanwhile, the situation in Sudan remains extremely tense, with the paramilitary and military continuing to engage in a crossfire.