Punjab govt deploys officers for safe return of people from West Asia

CHANDIGARH: In a bid to ensure safe, smooth and hassle-free return of citizens of Punjab stranded in the strife-torn West Asia, the Punjab government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has deployed two senior officers of the state government to coordinate and monitor the entire process.

As per the directions of Chief Minister Mann on Thursday, a 24x7 helpline has already been established with immediate effect.

Additional Director General of Police R.K. Jaiswal has been designated as the overall in charge of the helpline, while Department of Home Affairs Secretary, Vimal Setia, has been appointed as the nodal officer for coordination and monitoring purposes.

The nodal officer has been asked to remain in constant liaison with the Ministry of External Affairs.

The nodal officer will keep a tab on the measures being undertaken by the Union government for evacuation and ensuring the safety of Indians stranded in West Asia and other countries.