The Jammu and Kashmir government has appointed Anil Sharma as a coordination and liaison officer for residents and students from the union territory currently in Iran. Sharma, an Additional Resident Commissioner, will work with relevant agencies, including the Ministry of External Affairs and embassy/consular authorities, to ensure communication, coordination, and necessary support for the safety, welfare, and travel arrangements of individuals from J&K in Iran. This decision comes in light of the situation in Iran, where numerous students from J&K are pursuing various professional courses, such as MBBS, and Shia Muslim pilgrims from the region are visiting religious sites.
J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has engaged with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar regarding the circumstances in Iran. Abdullah expressed gratitude for the Minister’s insights and the outlined plans by the External Affairs Ministry to safeguard the well-being and interests of J&K residents and students in Iran. Additionally, Opposition leader Mehbooba Mufti has called on the Centre to ensure the safety of Indian nationals, including students from Kashmir, facing challenges in Iran. Mufti highlighted the concerns of families and urged immediate intervention from the Ministry of External Affairs to facilitate the safe return of those stranded in Iran.
