Srinagar, Jan 15: Concerns are rising over the safety of Indian students in Iran, including around 2,000 from Jammu and Kashmir, amid the ongoing unrest in the country.
J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said he spoke with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, who assured that all measures are being taken to safeguard the lives and interests of students and other residents from the Union Territory. “Grateful for his assurance that all steps will be taken to safeguard the interests & lives of students & other people from J&K who are in Iran now,” Omar tweeted.
Parents of Kashmiri students have appealed for their safe return, with several gathering in Srinagar to demand immediate government action. PDP president Mehbooba Mufti also urged the Centre to intervene urgently, highlighting the fear and anxiety among families.
To coordinate efforts, the J&K government has appointed Anil Sharma, JKAS, Additional Resident Commissioner in New Delhi, as the nodal officer for J&K residents and students in Iran. Sharma will liaise with the Ministry of External Affairs, embassies, and consular authorities to ensure safety, welfare, and travel facilitation for students and residents amid the volatile situation.