Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Mar 2: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has written to state governments warning of possible violence in India in the wake of reported joint US-Israel strikes on Iran, an official said on Monday.
The advisory, circulated on February 28, asked states and security agencies to remain alert and identify “pro-Iran radical preachers giving inflammatory sermons” that could incite unrest or communal tension. It cautioned that developments in West Asia could have domestic ripple effects, particularly through provocative rhetoric at religious gatherings.
The MHA stressed enhanced intelligence sharing and preventive measures to avert any law-and-order situation. Officials in New Delhi said the situation is being closely monitored for both its geopolitical implications and the possibility of global developments being exploited by extremist elements to inflame local sentiments.
The alert comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East following reported joint military action by the United States and Israel against Iran, raising concerns over a wider regional conflict. India has urged restraint from all sides while emphasising the safety of its citizens, particularly those residing in the Gulf region.
Amid the ongoing escalation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a telephone conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss the evolving situation. During the call, Modi conveyed India’s concerns and called for an early cessation of hostilities, underlining that civilian safety must remain a priority.
The Prime Minister also chaired a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) to review the developments in West Asia. The committee was briefed on the February 28 air strikes in Iran and subsequent escalation, including attacks reported in several Gulf countries.
The CCS expressed serious concern over the safety and security of the large Indian expatriate community in the region. It also reviewed issues faced by Indian travellers transiting through affected areas and students scheduled to appear for examinations, besides assessing the broader implications for regional security and economic activities.
The committee directed all concerned departments to take necessary and feasible measures to assist Indian nationals impacted by the situation. It reiterated the importance of an early cessation of hostilities and a return to dialogue and diplomacy.