Srinagar, Feb 28: The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) on Saturday wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, seeking urgent intervention to ensure the safety, academic protection and possible evacuation of Indian students currently residing in the Iran amid escalating military hostilities.
In its communication, the Association expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation following a sharp escalation in tensions. It referred to reports that on Saturday, the Israeli Defence Forces launched major strikes on Iranian territory, including areas in and around Tehran, where multiple explosions were reported and emergency measures imposed. The developments have reportedly led to airspace disruptions and heightened risks for civilians.
JKSA National Convenor Nasir Khuehami said the rapidly evolving situation has created fear and uncertainty among thousands of foreign nationals, including Indian students studying in various Iranian cities.
A large number of these students, particularly from the Kashmir Valley, are enrolled in MBBS and allied medical programmes in Iranian universities, drawn by the country’s affordable and structured academic system.
According to the Association, many students are facing restricted mobility, communication challenges and the looming threat of further escalation. Although advisories were reportedly issued on February 23 urging Indian nationals to leave Iran, a significant number of students have been unable to depart due to ongoing semester examinations and two crucial nationwide tests — the Uloompaya (Comprehensive Basic Science Examination) and the Pre-Internship Examination — scheduled for March 5, 2026 under the supervision of Iran’s Ministry of Health and Medical Education.
These examinations are mandatory milestones in the medical academic pathway, and in the absence of any formal notification regarding postponement, students fear that leaving at this stage could jeopardise their academic progression and nullify years of study.
The Association noted that the lack of clear communication from certain institutions regarding exam schedules has further compounded anxiety.
JKSA stressed the need for coordinated diplomatic engagement and structured contingency planning to ensure safe movement or evacuation of Indian nationals if the situation worsens.
It also highlighted the emotional distress of parents in Kashmir, who remain deeply anxious amid uncertainty and communication disruptions.
Iran Coordinator of the Association, Faizan Nabi, urged the Prime Minister to facilitate immediate coordination between the Ministry of External Affairs, the Indian Embassy in Tehran, Iranian authorities and university administrations. He suggested that, if required, evacuation be organised through appropriate diplomatic and logistical channels, including safe transit routes via neighbouring countries.
Expressing confidence in the Government of India’s record of protecting its citizens during global crises, the Association appealed for swift action to safeguard the lives, dignity and academic future of Indian students currently in Iran.
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