Indian Students Evacuated from Tehran Amid Rising Violence

On March 4, 2024, the Indian Embassy in Tehran confirmed the safe relocation of students from India, including those from Kashmir, to mitigate risks associated with escalating violence in the Iranian capital. This decision comes as ongoing strikes and civil unrest raise concerns over the safety of foreign nationals within the city.

Emergency Response and Relocation Efforts

To facilitate evacuation efforts, the embassy has established control rooms dedicated to assisting students. Videos circulating on social media show groups of students traveling by bus to safer locations, with many now relocated to Qom, approximately 150 kilometers southeast of Tehran. The embassy has stated, “Due to the heightened risk perception in Tehran city, the Embassy of India has relocated most Indian students who were in Tehran to safer locations outside Tehran.”

Arrangements for transportation, food, and accommodation have been organized for the students who have been moved. Despite these efforts, some students have chosen to remain in Tehran, citing concerns over missing crucial final exams scheduled for the coming weeks. The embassy has advised those still in the city to stay indoors, avoid windows, and exercise caution during this turbulent period.

Concerns of Families Back Home

The situation has caused significant anxiety among families in Kashmir. Many parents have expressed their worry for their children’s safety, particularly as communication has been difficult. “We have no contact with our children. We don’t know where they are and how they are,” a group of parents stated during a sit-in protest in Kashmir, urging the Indian government to expedite the evacuation process.

Logistical challenges also hinder students’ departure. With limited flights operating—only two weekly from Tehran to New Delhi—many students have struggled to arrange travel back home. Some had initially delayed their departure, believing that the situation would improve as diplomatic discussions were underway.

The Indian Embassy continues to maintain contact with students in Iran, providing emergency helpline numbers for assistance. Additionally, Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, has confirmed that students are being moved to safer areas within Iran. On March 3, Saeid Reza Mosayeb Motlagh, the Consulate General of the Islamic Republic of Iran, announced that Indian nationals would be allowed to leave through designated border points with only their passports required for crossing.

As the situation evolves, the embassy remains committed to ensuring the safety of Indian students in Iran, emphasizing the importance of communication and adherence to safety advisories.