IAF C-17 Globemaster in Kabul to bring back remaining Indians: Sources

As per sources, an IAF C-17 Globemaster landed in Kabul on Sunday and evacuated Indians from the war-torn country. However, neither MEA nor the defence ministry confirmed the evacuation drive.

In the backdrop of political turmoil in Afghanistan, India has pressed two C-17 transport aircraft to evacuate its nationals, including diplomats.

As per sources, an IAF C-17 Globemaster landed in Kabul on Sunday and evacuated Indians from the war-torn country. However, neither MEA nor the defence ministry confirmed the evacuation drive.

Sources also said that one more aircraft landed in Kabul on Monday to bring back all the Indians deployed there. As per an official, a total of 326 Afghan Sikhs and Hindus have taken asylum in a Gurudwara in Kabul. 

Meanwhile, India on Monday issued a statement, saying it is monitoring the situation in the country. 

Stating that it was in touch with representatives of Hindu and Afghan Sikh communities, the External Affairs Ministry said New Delhi will facilitate the repatriation of those who want to leave Afghanistan.

The government also made it clear that it will stand with a number of Afghans who have been partners in the promotion of mutual developmental, educational and people-to-people endeavours.

Repatriation efforts have been paused for now as commercial operations from Kabul airport have been suspended, the MEA said, reiterating that the government will take all steps to ensure the safety of Indian nationals and their interests in the war-torn country.