Home Minister G. Parameshwara Confirms Legal Action Possible, State Seeks Centre’s Help for Stranded Kannadigas in Middle East Conflict
Equal Law for All, Including MLAs
Addressing reporters, Parameshwara remarked,
“If they wanted to stage a protest, they should have done it at Freedom Park. It does not matter even if MLAs have participated. The same rules apply to everyone. We have to think of initiating legal action if there is a violation.”
The Minister added that he had no official update on any directives from the Centre to monitor protests, noting that reports may have reached the Chief Secretary or the Home Department.
Parameshwara described the issue as part of geopolitics, stating that foreign policy is determined by the Centre, and states follow its guidance. He declined to comment on the Congress party’s criticism of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s foreign visits or Sonia Gandhi’s statements, saying such matters are beyond the state’s purview.
“Thousands of people are working in the Middle East. Some have settled there for 10 to 20 years. Others have gone on holidays, business trips, or meetings. Those who do not know whom to contact are the ones who need help,” he said.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and the Chief Secretary have urged the Government of India to ensure the safe return of stranded individuals. Parameshwara added that reports of injuries or deaths are unconfirmed, and efforts are ongoing to contact legislators and Kannadigas in affected areas, including JD(S) MLC S.L. Bhojegowda, who was reportedly shifted to bunkers after a missile landed nearby.
The state government continues to monitor the situation and coordinate with the Centre regarding evacuation and safety measures.
