Operation Indravati: India Evacuates Nationals from Haiti Amidst Escalating Violence

By [Errraand News], [22/03/2024]

Against the backdrop of escalating violence and political uncertainty in Haiti, India has initiated “Operation Indravati” to evacuate its citizens from the crisis-ridden Caribbean nation. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar announced the operation on Thursday, emphasizing the government’s commitment to the safety and well-being of Indian nationals abroad. The evacuation efforts are being coordinated with the Dominican Republic, where the evacuees will be relocated.

 

Jaishankar took to social media platform X to convey the commencement of Operation Indravati, stating that 12 Indian nationals were successfully evacuated on the first day. Expressing gratitude to the Government of the Dominican Republic for their assistance, Jaishankar reiterated India’s dedication to ensuring the security of its citizens overseas.

The decision to launch Operation Indravati comes amidst a surge in violence perpetrated by armed gangs in the suburbs of Haiti’s capital, Port-au-Prince. The situation in the country has been tumultuous, compounded by ongoing political instability and the aftermath of the devastating 2010 earthquake.

Reports indicate that on February 29, gangs launched coordinated attacks across Port-au-Prince, resulting in the burning of police stations, the closure of the country’s main airport, and the mass escape of prisoners following the storming of two major prisons. In response to the escalating violence, Haiti declared a state of emergency and imposed a nighttime curfew on March 3.

At the center of the political turmoil is the demand for the resignation of Ariel Henry, Haiti’s acting prime minister, by Jimmy Cherizier, one of the country’s most influential gang leaders. Cherizier’s call for Henry’s resignation underscores the deep-seated political tensions in Haiti, exacerbated by the failure to address the socio-economic challenges facing the nation.

Despite Henry’s announcement on March 12 of his intention to step down from his role as prime minister, he has yet to relinquish power and remains in office. His ambiguous stance has further fueled uncertainty regarding Haiti’s political future, raising concerns both domestically and internationally.

In addition to internal strife, Haiti has witnessed the emergence of alliances between key figures in its political landscape. Jean-Charles Moise recently formed an alliance with Guy Philippe, a former rebel leader known for his role in the overthrow of former President Jean-Bertrand Aristide. Philippe, who was repatriated to Haiti in November after serving time in a US prison for money laundering, represents a significant force in the country’s volatile political landscape.

As India launches Operation Indravati to evacuate its citizens from Haiti, questions arise regarding the broader implications of the crisis on international relations and humanitarian efforts. The evacuation underscores the need for coordinated action to address the complex challenges facing Haiti, including political instability, socio-economic disparities, and security concerns.

FAQ: Operation Indravati and Evacuation Efforts in Haiti

1. What is Operation Indravati? Operation Indravati is a mission initiated by the Indian government to evacuate Indian nationals from Haiti amidst escalating violence and political instability in the country.

2. How many Indian nationals are being evacuated under Operation Indravati? The exact number of Indian nationals being evacuated under Operation Indravati has not been disclosed. However, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar confirmed the successful evacuation of 12 individuals on the first day of the operation.

3. Where are the evacuated Indian nationals being relocated? The evacuated Indian nationals are being relocated to the Dominican Republic in coordination with the Dominican government.

4. What prompted the launch of Operation Indravati? The decision to launch Operation Indravati was prompted by the escalating violence and security concerns in Haiti, particularly in the suburbs of Port-au-Prince, where armed gangs have been engaged in clashes.

5. What is the role of the Dominican Republic in the evacuation efforts? The Dominican Republic is serving as a transit point for the evacuated Indian nationals from Haiti. The government of the Dominican Republic is providing assistance and support for the relocation process.

6. What are the broader implications of the crisis in Haiti? The crisis in Haiti extends beyond internal political strife, encompassing socio-economic challenges and security threats. The evacuation of foreign nationals, including Indians, highlights the need for international cooperation and humanitarian assistance to address the multifaceted crisis facing Haiti.

Table: Timeline of Key Events in Haiti

Date	Event
Feb 29	Coordinated attacks by armed gangs across Port-au-Prince, leading to violence, arson, and the mass escape of prisoners.
Mar 3	Haiti declares a state of emergency and imposes a nighttime curfew in response to escalating violence and security threats.
Mar 12	Acting Prime Minister Ariel Henry announces intention to step down amid demands for resignation by influential gang leader Jimmy Cherizier.
Nov (Year)	Former rebel leader Guy Philippe, repatriated to Haiti after serving time in a US prison, forms an alliance with political figures in the country.

As India initiates Operation Indravati to evacuate its citizens from Haiti, the crisis in the Caribbean nation continues to unfold, raising concerns about its political future and the well-being of its populace.