Kashmiri Parents Plead for Government Help to Bring Students Home from Iran
Parents of Kashmiri students studying in Iran made an urgent appeal to the Indian government on Wednesday. They asked for immediate assistance to ensure the safe return of their children. This plea comes as tensions continue to rise sharply in Iran.
Anxious Gathering at Press Enclave
Scores of worried parents gathered at the Press Enclave in New Delhi. They voiced their concerns publicly and called for swift government intervention. Official estimates suggest more than 10,000 Indians currently reside in Iran. This number includes a significant population of students.
"We appeal directly to the prime minister, the external affairs minister, the chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir, and the lieutenant governor," one parent told reporters. "Please evacuate the students from Iran without delay." The parent expressed gratitude for previous government support. However, they emphasized the need for rapid action now to ensure student safety before conditions deteriorate further.
Confusion Over Embassy Instructions
Parents revealed a troubling detail during their appeal. They claimed the Indian Embassy in Tehran instructed students to leave the country independently. According to the parents, embassy officials told students to contact their families and arrange their own travel.
"They are asking the students to handle everything on their own," the parent added. "We can connect with our children through international calls, but it is incredibly difficult. We urge both the Union Territory and central authorities to step in and facilitate a proper evacuation."
Internet Shutdown Creates Major Hurdles
A mother of one student highlighted the practical challenges families face. She pointed to the internet shutdown in Iran as a critical barrier. This shutdown makes arranging travel nearly impossible for parents trying to help from India.
"I urge the government to remove the students from there immediately," she said. "Even if we manage to book tickets online, we cannot send the details to our children because of the internet blockade. It is an impossible situation for them. They need to be evacuated as soon as possible."
Indian Embassy Issues Stern Advisory
In response to the worsening situation, the Indian Embassy in Tehran issued a new advisory. The advisory urges all Indian nationals in Iran to leave the country promptly. This directive applies to students, pilgrims, business travelers, and tourists.
The advisory states clearly: "In view of the evolving situation in Iran, Indian nationals are advised to leave Iran by available means of transport, including commercial flights." This notice continues the guidance issued by the Government of India earlier in January.
The embassy advised nationals to keep their travel documents, like passports, easily accessible. They should contact the embassy directly if they require any assistance. The embassy has activated emergency helplines and provided multiple contact numbers and an official email for support.
Indian citizens not yet registered with the embassy are urged to do so immediately. They can use the Ministry of External Affairs' online portal. Families in India are asked to register on behalf of their relatives if internet access in Iran remains limited.
Iran Closes Airspace Amid US Threats
Meanwhile, Iran took the drastic step of closing its airspace on Thursday. This move followed threats from US President Donald Trump. The threats were linked to the Iranian government's crackdown on widespread protests.
These protests have swept across Iran for the past two weeks. According to reports from the Human Rights Activists News Agency, the demonstrations have resulted in significant casualties. More than 2,500 people have lost their lives, including over 100 security personnel and thirteen children. Additionally, authorities have detained more than 18,400 individuals.
The combination of internal unrest, international tensions, and travel restrictions creates a perilous environment. This is why Kashmiri parents are raising their voices with such urgency. They seek a coordinated government effort to bring their children home safely.
