India prioritizes diaspora security amid West Asia crisis, ships to cross Hormuz

The Indian government convened an all-party meeting on March 25, 2026, to brief political leaders on the escalating crisis in West Asia. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh chaired the meeting, with key ministers like Home Minister Amit Shah and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar in attendance. The primary focus of the discussion was the safety and security of the Indian diaspora in the Gulf region and India's energy security, particularly concerning the Strait of Hormuz. The government conveyed that the security of the Indian diaspora remains its utmost priority amidst the volatile situation. Leaders present in the meeting were informed that more India-bound ships are expected to cross the Strait of Hormuz soon. This assurance comes as the Indian Navy has intensified its efforts through Operation Urja Suraksha to safeguard energy vessels transiting this critical chokepoint [21]. During the meeting, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and the Petroleum Secretary briefed the representatives of all political parties on the evolving situation, India's preparedness, and the steps being taken to mitigate the impact of the conflict. Key concerns raised by opposition parties, including those related to fuel and gas supplies through the Strait of Hormuz, were addressed comprehensively. Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju stated that all queries and confusions were clarified and that the opposition parties assured their full support to the government's actions [11, 18]. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had previously addressed Parliament on the West Asia crisis, describing it as an "unprecedented crisis" with potentially long-lasting consequences for the global economy and India's energy security [4, 13, 26]. He had emphasized the need for a coordinated response from the Centre and states and stressed that the country must be prepared for the long-term impact of the conflict [3, 5]. The meeting also highlighted India's efforts in ensuring energy security. Domestic gas production had reportedly risen to 60%, a significant increase from 28% at the start of the conflict [10]. The government assured that preparations are in place to ensure an adequate supply of oil, gas, and fertilizers [8]. However, the meeting was not without its political undertones. The Trinamool Congress (TMC) boycotted the all-party meeting, questioning why discussions were held in a conference room instead of Parliament, which was in session [1, 7, 25]. Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, also chose not to attend, citing a pre-scheduled program, though he criticized the government's handling of foreign policy [5, 9]. Despite these absences, Kiren Rijiju expressed satisfaction that the opposition members present were satisfied with the government's response and assured their support [11, 18, 28]. The West Asia crisis, triggered by US-Israeli strikes on Iran, has disrupted key maritime trade routes, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, impacting global energy markets and supply chains [13, 19, 26]. India, being a significant importer of crude oil and gas, is particularly vulnerable to these disruptions, as a large portion of its energy needs passes through this critical waterway [12, 26]. The Indian diaspora in the Gulf region, numbering over 9 million, also remains a significant concern for the government [20, 22]. The government has activated 24/7 control rooms and helplines to assist affected citizens and their families [15]. The Hindustan Times report accurately reflects the government's stated priorities and the proceedings of the all-party meeting. The headline accurately captures the essence of the government's communication during the meeting.

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