The J&K Students Association (JKSA) has appealed to External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar to assist in evacuating Indian students stranded in Urmia, Iran, due to ongoing airstrikes and hostilities. The students, including Kashmiris studying at Urmia University, are facing a deteriorating security situation with explosions and airstrikes near their residential areas. The Association has emphasized the urgent need for evacuation through Armenia, citing the proximity and safety of this route.
According to JKSA’s national Convenor Nasir Kheuhami, the students in Urmia have been living in fear and distress due to the alarming security conditions. The explosions near their dormitories, coupled with the sound of fighter jets and air defense activities, have created an atmosphere of constant fear and uncertainty. The Association has highlighted the vulnerability of the region to further strikes, especially targeting military installations and airbases.
JKSA has requested diplomatic assistance from the Indian government to facilitate the safe passage of the stranded students through Armenia. The students are willing to cover their travel expenses and are in need of formal permissions and documentation to cross into Armenia. The Association has stressed the importance of timely intervention and evacuation planning to ensure the students’ safety and alleviate the psychological distress they are experiencing.
The Association has reiterated its plea to the Centre to assess the ground situation promptly and establish safe evacuation corridors for the students. Swift action and structured evacuation planning are crucial not only for the students’ safety but also to provide reassurance to their families. JKSA has underlined the significance of coordinated efforts between Indian and relevant authorities in Iran and Armenia to secure safe transit arrangements for the students.
