Punjab seeks information on stranded Indians overseas
Venkat Raman
Auckland, April 26, 2020
The State government of Punjab is collecting information about Indian nationals stranded overseas in an apparent attempt to consider the possibilities of arranging flights for them.
Although this is an initiative of a State, this could lead to a federal government exercise if there are sufficient numbers to warrant government-sponsored flights.
Official Circular sent
Indian Newslink Columnist and Auckland based Barrister & Solicitor Gurbrinder Aulakh has sent us a circular letter sent by Employment Generation and Training Secretary of the Punjab government to all the Deputy Commissioners of the State.
“I am told that a number of people from India are stranded in New Zealand because borders of both countries are closed for commercial flights. If there is sufficient demand, either the Punjab government or the federal government may consider special flights. Perhaps those reading this may be benefited,” he said.
The Circular has been issued by the Head of State Covid-19 Control Room (SCCR)-cum Secretary, Employment Generation and Training, Government of Punjab. It said that a significant number of Indian nationals are working abroad as well as Indian students pursuing higher education in colleges/universities in different countries.
“In the wake of Covid-19, many of these Indian citizens desirous of returning to India but are unable to come due to the ban on all passenger flights eventually return of these individuals would require detailed planning by the State government,” it said.
Information needed
The Circular asked the officials to collect the following information through advertisements, other appropriate channels:
Name of the Indian Citizens/Father Name: Current Mobile number: Current Address in the foreign country; passport number; Number of persons accompanying ; nearest airport in Punjab.
Please write to sccr.pb2020@gmail.com
