'Appalled....endangering Indians abroad': S Jaishnakar slams Siddaramaiah over Sudan tweet

In a series of tweets, the former Chief Minister of Karnataka had alleged inaction on the part of the Indian government in bringing back the stranded people belonging to a tribal community in the southern state.

"The Hakki Pikkis in Sudan were left stranded without food for the past few days and the government has not yet initiated action to bring them back," he claimed.

In a sharp retort, Jaishankar said: "It is grossly irresponsible of you to politicize their situation. No electoral goal justifies endangering Indians abroad."

"Simply appalled at your tweet! There are lives at stake; don't do politics," he wrote in another tweet denouncing Siddaramaiah's remarks.

The Union Minister tweeted in detail the government's efforts in Sudan, where rival factions of the ruling military regime have been battling for control of the African nation.

"Their details and locations cannot be made public for security reasons. Their movement is constrained by fierce fighting that is ongoing, he said, adding, "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."

The Congress stalwart earlier sought the Centre to immediately open diplomatic discussions and reach out to international agencies to ensure the well-being of Hakki-Pikkis.

On Tuesday, the Indian Embassy in Sudan issued a precautionary advisory for Indian citizens against venturing out, suggesting rationing of supplies as the "situation may continue for a few more days."

"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," the India Embassy in Khartoum tweeted.

On Monday, the Ministry of External Affairs, in view of the current clashes between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), set up a Control Room to provide information and assistance to Indians.

At least 185 people have been killed and over 1,800 wounded since the fighting between Sudan's two top generals erupted.