Stranded Scholars: Indian Students in Iran Plead for Evacuation Amid Escalating Tensions

Amid escalating tensions and retaliatory strikes between Israel and Iran, hundreds of Indian students studying in Iran have made an urgent appeal to the Indian government for evacuation. With fears mounting due to frequent explosions near student accommodations, the situation has become increasingly dire for these students.

Many students hailing from Jammu and Kashmir are enrolled in various Iranian universities, such as Shahid Beheshti University and the Iran University of Medical Science. "I woke up to deafening blasts at 2:30 am on Friday and rushed to safety in the basement. We are petrified and haven't been able to sleep," Imtisal Mohidin, a third-year MBBS student, recounted.

The blasts, just a few kilometers from their hostels and apartments, have caused significant distress among the students, prompting them to call on the Government of India for an immediate evacuation. Over 350 Indian students study at Shahid Beheshti University alone, with the safety concerns exacerbated as the university has suspended classes and advised students to limit their movement amid ongoing bombardments.

Despite occasional communication with the university administration, students heavily rely on updates from the Indian Embassy for guidance. The Embassy has issued advisories urging Indian nationals in Iran to remain indoors and join a dedicated Telegram channel for real-time updates. In response, the Indian Embassy is actively monitoring the situation and facilitating student relocations to safer areas within Iran.

Students like Faizan Nabi from Kerman University and Midhat from the Iran University of Medical Science continue to share harrowing experiences of panic and isolation, feeling cut off from family and facing slow internet speeds. The confinement and uncertainty have taken a toll, and the students' families are anxiously awaiting news of a safe passage home.

(With inputs from agencies.)