India advises its nationals in Bahrain

New Delhi, Mar 17 (PTI) India on Thursday advised its
nationals in Bahrain that those people whose presence is not
necessary should consider leaving the country even as the
Indian envoy there met the Prime Minister who assured
everything would be done to ensure safety of the community.
Ambassador Mohan Kumar met Bahrain Prime Minister
Sheikh Khalifa Bin Salman Al Khalifa who assured him that
authorities will do everything in their power to ensure safety
of Indians in Bahrain, Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao said.
Bahrain is witnessing protests over the last several
weeks, with the demonstrators alleging discrimination and lack
of rights and seeking political reforms including restricting
the country's monarchy to a constitutional role only.
The ministry has already asked Indians in Bahrain to
keep a low profile, stay indoors and to avoid all
non-essential travel within the country.
"The Indian Embassy has also advised the Indian
associations that those family members and others whose
presence in Bahrain is not necessary should consider leaving
the country, if so inclined," it said.
Bahrain has nearly 300,000 Indians, making them the
single largest expatriate community in the tiny Gulf country.
"The government continues to carefully monitor the
security situation in Bahrain and will issue suitable travel
advisories should it become necessary," the ministry said.