With the security situation in South Sudan deteriorating fast, India has decided to pull out its nationals from the violence-hit country. The Ministry of External Affairs on Monday asked Indians living in the African nation to get themselves registered with the Indian embassy so that they can be brought back. It also issued an advisory asking Indians not to travel to South Sudan.
“I am aware of the developments in South Sudan. We are planning evacuation of Indian nationals. Please register yourself with Indian Embassy and do not panic. Indian nationals are advised not to travel to South Sudan,” External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj tweeted on Monday.
“The security situation in Juba, the capital city of South Sudan, has deteriorated since 07th July, 2016. We have reports of gun fire and fighting on the streets of Juba making any movement virtually impossible. Ministry of External Affairs advises all Indian nationals against all travel to South Sudan till situation improves,” MEA said in its latest advisory.
South Sudan is witnessing violent clashes between pro and anti-Government forces. “Help request, Hum log heavy gunfire me ji rhe he. Koi Indian Govt ko inform kreIJ (We are living under heavy gunfire. Someone inform the Indian Government,” wrote one Ketan Tanna on Twitter, tagging Swaraj. Swaraj responded back immediately, saying she has asked Indian embassy to help.
Meanwhile, the Indian embassy in South Sudan has assured Indian nationals to stay calm and that they be in constant touch with authorities in New Delhi and all options are being considered for providing relief to Indians stranded in Juba.
Though the number of Indians in South Sudan is not huge, still there are a few hundred of them - some having business set-up in Juba, others working for various companies and a small number working in Christian missionary organisations.