PDP MLA urges Centre to evacuate Kashmiri students stranded in Iran
Said government-facilitated arrangements would ensure an orderly and secure evacuation
Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) MLA from Budgam, Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi, has written to Union Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar urging the government to urgently facilitate the safe evacuation of students and pilgrims from Kashmir currently stranded in Iran.
In a letter addressed to Jaishankar, Mehdi said a considerable number of students, many of whom are pursuing MBBS and other medical courses, had travelled to Iran to pursue their education and professional aspirations.
“However, the rapidly evolving circumstances have placed them in an environment of anxiety and insecurity, far away from the comfort and safety of their homeland,” he said.
The MLA said reports suggest that students may have to arrange their return travel to India independently under the current circumstances.
“While the determination of these young students to return safely is understandable, the extraordinary situation calls for a more coordinated and humanitarian response from the Government of India,” he said.
Mehdi also pointed out that banking and financial services in Iran remain largely disrupted due to the prevailing situation, making it extremely difficult for students to receive funds from their families. “As a result, parents are unable to transfer money for travel arrangements, placing the students in a difficult situation,” he said.
In view of these constraints, Mehdi urged the Centre to arrange travel for the students at the earliest to ensure their safe return without imposing an additional financial burden on their families.
He said government-facilitated arrangements would ensure an orderly and secure evacuation while easing the emotional distress faced by parents. “Such measures would provide reassurance, safety and dignity to students who look towards their nation for support in a moment of crisis,” he added.
Mehdi said ensuring the safe and timely return of these students would reflect the Government of India’s commitment to the welfare and protection of its citizens studying abroad, particularly during challenging international circumstances.
