Urgent Call for Evacuation: Kashmiri Students Stranded Amid Iran Unrest

Jammu and Kashmir's Awami Itihaad Party MP, Engineer Rashid, currently in Tihar Jail, urges immediate intervention from External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar for the evacuation of Kashmiri students from Iran amidst rising unrest and protests over living costs. MEA advisory warns Indians against travel to Iran.

As unrest spirals in Iran, Jammu and Kashmir Awami Itihaad Party (AIP) MP Sheikh Abdul Rashid, more commonly known as Engineer Rashid, has made an urgent plea to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. Engineers Rashid is seeking quick intervention to ensure the safety and evacuation of Kashmiri students residing in the Islamic Republic.

Rashid, who has been detained in Tihar Jail since 2019 over allegations of terror funding under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, detailed his concerns in a letter. He stressed the dire need for immediate action, as the uncertainty in Iran seems never-ending, according to party spokesperson Inam Un Nabi.

The families of students stuck in Iran have expressed heightened distress, Rashid wrote, urging Jaishankar to respond promptly to these 'SOS' cries. The External Affairs Ministry, meanwhile, has reiterated its advisory for Indian citizens to avoid travel to Iran and to arrange for immediate departure if already there.

The situation in Iran, marked by widespread protests due to soaring living costs and significant internet restrictions, necessitates urgent measures. The AIP conveyed their readiness to assist families in Kashmir in coordination and support efforts.

In another development, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah initiated a conversation with External Affairs Minister Jaishankar. The Chief Minister confirmed that the Ministry of External Affairs is strategizing the safe return of Indian nationals, with Jaishankar offering assurances to prioritize the safety and interests of those from Jammu and Kashmir in Iran.

Contact with Iranian officials is ongoing, as demonstrated by Jaishankar's recent dialogue with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi about Iran's escalating situation.

(With inputs from agencies.)