Bhubaneswar, March 2 -- Amid the escalating conflict in the Middle East, Biju Janata Dal (BJD) president Naveen Patnaik on Monday urged the Government of India to take immediate steps to ensure the safe evacuation of people from Odisha stranded in the region.

In a statement, Patnaik said on X, "The escalating conflict in the Middle East has left many people from Odisha including migrant workers, professionals, students, tourists stranded. With disruption of air connectivity many people are facing grave uncertainty. Their safety and well-being are at risk, and they look to the nation for urgent support."

"Request the Government of India (@DrSJaishankar) to take immediate steps to ensure the safe evacuation and return of all Odias caught ...