Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis. File Pic
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday extended support to Maharashtrians stranded in the Middle East, urging them to stay calm and remain in touch with official channels amid ongoing tensions in the West Asia.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Fadnavis said the Embassy of India in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General of India in Dubai are in constant contact with representatives of the Indian community, including those from Maharashtra.
"In view of the prevailing situation in the Middle East, the Embassy of India in Abu Dhabi has informed the community that the Ministry of External Affairs is closely monitoring the evolving situation. The community is advised not to panic and is reassured of the full support of the Government of India," he wrote.
He further advised Maharashtrians stranded in the UAE to rely only on authentic updates from the official handles of the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi (IndembAbuDhabi) and the Indian Consulate in Dubai (cgidubai).
Those requiring assistance have been asked to contact the Indian diplomatic missions through the following:
Toll-free number: 800-46342
WhatsApp: 971543090571
In coordination with the Indian People's Forum in Dubai, the Maharashtra government has also released a dedicated WhatsApp helpline number for assistance: 97150 365 4357.
The CM assured that the state government remains in close coordination with central authorities to facilitate support and safe return, if required.
Multiple Indian citizens stuck in Abu Dhabi and Dubai have raised complaints on X, claiming the Embassy of India has not provided updates on the government's evacuation plan.
One user tweeted, "I visited the Embassy of India in Abu Dhabi today and asked about the evacuation plan. They don't have any updates. I am travelling with my parents and kids. My father has health issues. Airlines are continually rescheduling."
Another user stuck in Dubai said, "No point in reaching out; they are only sending automated messages."
A third user highlighted difficulties contacting the helpline, stating, "The toll-free number 800-46342 is not answered, WhatsApp only sends automated messages, and no online evacuation form is available. Very disappointed."
These complaints reflect growing frustration among Indian citizens in the UAE over unclear evacuation guidance amid ongoing disruptions.
