‘Don’t do politics': Jaishankar slams Siddaramaiah over Sudan tweet

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar slammed senior Congress leader Siddaramaiah for his remarks over 31 tribals from Karnataka who are stuck in crisis-hit Sudan.

"Simply appalled at your tweet! There are lives at stake; don't do politics. Since the fighting started on April 14th, the Embassy of India in Khartoum has been continuously in touch with most Indian Nationals and PIOs in Sudan", the union minister tweeted.

"Their details and locations cannot be made public for security reasons. Their movement is constrained by fierce fighting that is ongoing. Plans regarding them have to take into account a very complicated security scenario. The Embassy is in constant touch with the Ministry in that regard", Jaishankar added.

"It is grossly irresponsible of you to politicize their situation. No electoral goal justifies endangering Indians abroad", the minister further said.

Earlier, in a series of tweets, former Karnataka CM Siddaramiah had alleged government inaction in bringing back the stranded people belonging to a tribal community in the southern state.

"Hakki Pikkis in Sudan are left stranded without food since the last few days & the govt is yet to initiate action to bring them back. @BJP4India govt should immediately open diplomatic discussions & reach out to international agencies to ensure the well-being of Hakki Pikkis", the Congress leader added.

"It is also unfortunate to know that we have lost one Indian & 60 others in the ongoing civil war in Sudan. My deepest condolences to their families and pray for the peace in the region", he added.

Sudan is in turmoil as fighting has raged between Sudanese army and rival paramilitary force RSF with Indian Embassy asking Indians to stay indoors.

"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," tweeted the Embassy of India in Khartoum.

At least 200 people have been killed and over 1,800 wounded since the fighting between Sudan's two top generals erupted.