How Were 16 Individuals Welcomed Back to Karnataka from Iran?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- 16 individuals returned safely from Iran to Bengaluru.
- MLA Puttaswamy Gowda welcomed them at the airport.
- Efforts are ongoing to repatriate around 80 stranded individuals.
- The government remains in touch with the Ministry of External Affairs.
- Support from the Indian Embassy was crucial for the returnees.
Bengaluru, June 21 (NationPress) A heartfelt reception was given to 16 individuals who returned safely to Bengaluru from Iran on Saturday at the Kempegowda International Airport.
Independent MLA Puttaswamy Gowda, representing the Gauribidanur Assembly constituency, along with the families of the returnees, welcomed them with open arms.
MLA Gowda presented the Indian Tricolour to the returnees and joined them in chanting “Bharat Mata ki Jai”.
In remarks to the press, he noted that most of the returnees hailed from Alipura village in Chikkaballapura district.
“There are approximately 80 individuals from Alipura village still stranded in Iran. I have communicated with the Chief Minister and Union Ministers regarding this matter, and efforts will be made to repatriate them shortly, possibly within a day or two,” he mentioned.
The returnees initially landed in Delhi before being transported to Bengaluru. They shared that their original goal was to explore business opportunities in Iran. However, the onset of conflict generated fears of being unable to return to India. They expressed sincere gratitude towards the officials of the Indian Embassy, as well as both state and Union governments, for their support.
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah recently affirmed that students from the state currently in conflict-affected Israel and Iran are being well cared for and will be repatriated soon.
“I spoke with relevant authorities this morning. Airports there are presently closed, but they might reopen within a day or two, allowing for the immediate return of the students. All are safe and receiving adequate care. We are striving to expedite their return,” Siddaramaiah stated.
He added that the state government has reached out to the Ministry of External Affairs, requesting the safe return of students.
Authorities have confirmed that they remain in constant communication with relevant personnel and are taking necessary actions based on the evolving situation.
The Office of the Deputy Chairman of the NRI Forum of Karnataka released an official statement. H.S. Satish, Special Officer for the Deputy Chairman, noted that the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran has caused anxiety among foreigners currently in Iran.
Previously, Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel, H.D. Kumaraswamy, conducted a video call with several Kannadigas stranded in Israel amid the ongoing conflict. He inquired about their safety and well-being.
The Union Minister engaged with the Kannadigas from his official residence, ensuring them of the Union government’s full support.
He stated that he would promptly discuss the situation with the Ministry of External Affairs to guarantee the safe and rapid return of individuals to their homeland.