Urgent Call for Assistance to Indian Students Trapped in Iran Amid Unrest
As unrest continues in Iran, AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi and Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah are urging the Indian government to take immediate action to assist stranded students. With internet outages and financial constraints hindering their return, many students feel vulnerable and anxious. Owaisi has called for a clear evacuation plan, while Abdullah has communicated with the Foreign Minister regarding the safety of Indian citizens. The situation remains critical as parents express deep concern for their children's well-being.
| Jan 15, 2026, 16:01 IST
Concerns Raised by Political Leaders
AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi and Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah have urged the central government to provide immediate assistance to Indian students stranded in Iran due to ongoing unrest. Owaisi emphasized that the safety of these students must be the top priority. He acknowledged that Foreign Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar's communication with his Iranian counterpart is a positive step. However, he stressed that mere discussions are insufficient, and swift action is necessary to ensure the safe return of the students. Owaisi mentioned that he has been contacted by numerous worried parents. According to him, approximately 70 to 80 Indian students are enrolled at Shahid Beheshti University in Iran, including five to eight from Hyderabad. He noted that hundreds of Indian students across Iran are feeling frightened and helpless.
Challenges Faced by Students
Owaisi pointed out several issues: first, the internet is down in Iran, making communication difficult; second, parents are unable to purchase tickets to send their children home; and third, many students come from low-income families and lack the funds to buy tickets. He further claimed that the university is withholding students' passports, preventing them from leaving Iran and returning to India. This has exacerbated the already tense situation.
Parents' Distress and Government Response
Owaisi expressed that parents are extremely worried and anxious as they are unaware of their children's circumstances. He called on the Indian government to formulate a clear evacuation plan to safely bring all stranded students back home. Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also addressed the issue, stating that he has discussed the rapidly evolving situation in Iran with Foreign Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, highlighting concerns regarding the safety of Indian citizens. Abdullah shared on social media that the minister updated him on the current situation and the measures being taken by the ministry to address the developments.