Can the MEA Ensure the Repatriation of 54 Indians Stranded in Italy?
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Synopsis
In a pressing appeal, BJP leader Ponguleti Sudhakar Reddy has called upon the External Affairs Minister to expedite the return of 54 Indian citizens stranded in Milan due to flight cancellations. The situation is dire, with families deeply concerned as geopolitical tensions rise. Will the MEA respond in time to assist these stranded nationals?
Key Takeaways
- 54 Indian citizens stranded in Milan due to flight cancellations.
- Ponguleti Sudhakar Reddy has reached out to the External Affairs Minister for assistance.
- The stranded group includes professors and their families.
- Flight cancellations are linked to geopolitical tensions between Israel and Iran.
- Urgent measures are needed to facilitate their return to India.
Chennai, June 26 (NationPress) Prominent BJP figure and former MLC Ponguleti Sudhakar Reddy has reached out to External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to urgently facilitate the repatriation of 54 Indian nationals stranded in Milan, Italy, due to a series of flight cancellations caused by rising geopolitical tensions between Israel and Iran.
In his correspondence, Reddy, who is currently the BJP National Co-Incharge for Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, pointed out that the stranded group includes 21 individuals from Virudhunagar district in Tamil Nadu and 33 others from different regions across the nation.
The majority of the stranded individuals are professors alongside their families, who embarked on a European trip earlier this month.
As per the letter, the group set off for France on June 13, 2025, via an Air India flight and was originally scheduled to return to India from Milan on June 23.
However, their return flight was cancelled and subsequently rescheduled for June 24, only to face another cancellation, reportedly due to ongoing international aviation disruptions linked to the Israel-Iran conflict.
“Currently, they are struggling to secure any available flights back to India and are in desperate need of support,” Reddy noted.
The distress signal was initially raised by the Virudhunagar unit of the BJP in Tamil Nadu, which received pleas for help from some of the stranded individuals.
An official list of those currently stranded in Milan has also been included with the request for assistance. Calling for urgent action, Reddy urged the Ministry of External Affairs to collaborate with the Indian Embassy in Rome and other relevant bodies to ensure the safe and prompt return of the group.
“This situation is profoundly distressing for the families awaiting their return. I urge your esteemed office to take swift measures to expedite their repatriation,” the letter concluded.
While the Ministry of External Affairs has yet to provide an official response, sources suggest that Indian missions in Europe are on high alert due to increasing disruptions in international flight operations amid the ongoing Middle East crisis.
Point of View
The recent appeal by BJP leader Ponguleti Sudhakar Reddy underscores the importance of governmental intervention in times of crisis. The plight of the stranded Indians in Milan reflects broader concerns regarding international travel safety and the need for robust diplomatic action. As the situation evolves, it is crucial for the Ministry of External Affairs to act swiftly, demonstrating its commitment to the welfare of Indian citizens abroad.
NationPress
26/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are 54 Indians stranded in Italy?
The 54 Indians are stranded in Milan due to multiple flight cancellations linked to rising geopolitical tensions between Israel and Iran.
Who is advocating for their repatriation?
Senior BJP leader and former MLC Ponguleti Sudhakar Reddy has written to the External Affairs Minister seeking their immediate repatriation.
What is the current situation for the stranded Indians?
The stranded individuals are facing difficulties in securing flights back to India and are in urgent need of assistance.
What actions are being taken by the Indian government?
The Ministry of External Affairs is being urged to coordinate with the Indian Embassy in Rome to ensure the safe return of the stranded group.
What has the response been from the Ministry of External Affairs?
The Ministry has not yet issued an official response, but Indian missions in Europe are reportedly on alert due to ongoing flight disruptions.
