India has initiated 'Operation Indravati' to evacuate its citizens from the turmoil-stricken nation of Haiti to the Dominican Republic, announced External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar through a social media post. The decision comes as Haiti, a Caribbean country, grapples with escalating chaos fueled by the takeover of its streets by armed gangs, leading to the near absence of governmental authority.
Under the auspices of 'Operation Indravati,' twelve Indian nationals were successfully evacuated on Thursday, marking a pivotal step in ensuring the safety and security of Indian citizens amidst the deteriorating situation in Haiti. Jaishankar underscored India's unwavering commitment to the well-being of its nationals abroad, expressing gratitude to the Government of the Dominican Republic for its support in facilitating the evacuation process.
The launch of 'Operation Indravati' follows earlier statements by Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs, who emphasized India's readiness to evacuate its citizens from Haiti if deemed necessary. The decision underscores India's proactive stance in safeguarding the interests of its citizens in the face of escalating violence and instability.
Haiti's descent into chaos has been exacerbated by rampant gang violence, prompting the United States to evacuate non-essential embassy staff and the declaration of a state of emergency in the country. Prime Minister Ariel Henry's resignation, amidst escalating violence and attacks on critical infrastructure, further underscores the gravity of the situation.
Jimmy Cherizier, also known as 'Babekyou' or 'Barbecue,' has emerged as a central figure in Haiti's volatile landscape, leading the notorious 'G9 and Family' gang. Reports indicate that gang control in the capital has reached alarming levels, with widespread displacement and insecurity affecting tens of thousands of individuals.
In response to the escalating crisis, India has established a dedicated control room and emergency hotline to facilitate the safe evacuation of its citizens from Haiti. These measures reflect India's proactive approach in addressing the evolving security challenges and ensuring the safety of its citizens in crisis-affected regions.
