A Kashmiri MBBS student who was recently evacuated from Iran reunited with her family in Srinagar this week, receiving an emotional welcome—but not without raising serious concerns over the government’s evacuation process.
The student, pursuing her medical degree in Qom, Iran, was among the batch of 94 Kashmiri students flown back to India amid escalating tensions in the region. While visibly relieved to be home, she expressed disappointment over what she described as “chaotic, delayed, and poorly coordinated” evacuation efforts.
“There was no clarity, no proper communication. We were made to wait endlessly without knowing what was next. The arrangements lacked urgency despite the situation getting worse by the day,” she said. “Had it not been for the support of student groups and the Indian Embassy’s local staff, the experience could’ve turned tragic.”
Her family, overjoyed to have her home safely, echoed the sentiment. “We’re grateful she is safe, but the stress and anxiety we went through due to the lack of proper updates and planning was unimaginable,” her father said while embracing his daughter outside Srinagar Airport.
The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA), which played a crucial role in coordinating with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the Indian Embassy in Iran, also flagged these concerns. “We appreciate the evacuation but urge the government to streamline its processes. Students should not feel abandoned during international crises,” said Nasir Khuehami, JKSA National Convenor.
The student is now recovering at home, surrounded by loved ones, but called for urgent reforms. “Evacuations should be swift, organized, and transparent—especially when lives are at stake. The government must be better prepared for such emergencies,” she said.