Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Apr 4: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday accused the Indian National Congress of putting the safety of Indians living in the Middle East at risk through inflammatory statements. Speaking at a rally in Thiruvalla ahead of the 2026 Kerala Assembly elections, PM Modi alleged that Congress is attempting to portray India as an adversary to Gulf countries amid the ongoing US–Iran conflict.

“The Congress wants the West Asian countries to consider India as their enemy…give some statement, and trouble befalls Indians living in the Gulf. They are making statements that anger the Gulf countries,” he said.

The Prime Minister emphasised that politics must take a backseat when it comes to the safety of millions of Keralites abroad.

“Politics has its place, elections will come and go, but for me, the safety of the lakhs of Keralites there is the priority, and I am committed to that,” he added.

PM Modi highlighted India’s strong diplomatic ties with Middle Eastern nations, noting that Gulf governments traditionally treat Indians as family and safeguard their welfare. He warned that irresponsible rhetoric could endanger the community and disrupt their livelihoods.
“The safety of our millions of brothers and sisters living there is our sole responsibility. Stop speaking nonsense so that our young people, our daughters, face no trouble there,” he said.

The Centre has been closely monitoring the situation since the outbreak of hostilities in the region. PM Modi recently chaired a meeting with all state chief ministers and union territory lieutenant governors to review safety measures. Additionally, an inter-ministerial committee chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has been formed to oversee developments in the Gulf.

Polling for the 2026 Kerala Legislative Assembly elections is scheduled for April 9, with counting on May 4. The tenure of the current assembly ends on May 23.