Srinagar: The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) on Tuesday expressed grave concern over the safety and well-being of Kashmiri students and other Indian nationals stranded in Iran, noting that while the Indian Embassy in Tehran has issued an advisory asking students to leave Iran at the earliest through self-arranged means, no formal or coordinated evacuation plan has yet been announced.
In view of the rapidly deteriorating security situation, the Association urged the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and the External Affairs Minister, Dr S. Jaishankar, to immediately initiate evacuation measures for Indian citizens, including Kashmiri students stranded in Iran.
In a statement here, JKSA said the worsening crisis has triggered widespread fear, uncertainty, and anxiety across Kashmir, with parents deeply distressed over the safety of their children. The Association stressed that expecting students to arrange their own exit in an unstable and volatile environment is neither safe nor practical.
“Self-arranged departures are not feasible for many students due to serious security risks, logistical challenges, and limited access to reliable transport and communication,” the Association said, adding that the absence of an organised and structured evacuation mechanism has only compounded the distress faced by students and their families.
Reiterating its full faith in the capabilities of the Ministry of External Affairs, JKSA acknowledged the Government of India’s consistent efforts in safeguarding Indian citizens abroad. However, it emphasised that the gravity of the present situation demands swift, proactive, and coordinated diplomatic intervention, so that students are not left to navigate an unfolding crisis on their own.
The Association urged the Government of India to put in place a clear evacuation framework, dedicated emergency helplines, and secure transit corridors, ensuring that Indian students can return home safely, securely, and with dignity.
“The Government of India must be prepared to act decisively and without delay to bring Indian students home. Their safety and security must remain the highest priority,” the Association added.
