Nearly 1,100 Kashmiri students stranded in Iran, families appeal to government for help

March 2, 2026

New Delhi: Fear and confusion have gripped many families in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, as nearly 1,100 Kashmiri students are stranded in Iran, where tensions are rising in the Middle East.

Anxiety among families in Jammu and Kashmir

Tehran and other areas have reportedly been declared “red zones,” and communication disruptions remain, causing concern among parents. They have urged the central government to immediately intervene to ensure the safe evacuation or relocation of students from high-risk areas.

Parents’ Anxiety and Fear

A family member of stranded students told IANS that the situation has caused extreme anxiety among parents.

“I have two children there. I evacuated my daughter four or five days ago, before the fighting began. I had planned to arrange a ticket for my son as well, but he said the university was not allowing students to leave because their exams were ongoing. Most air routes are closed. We understand that the Indian government must be making great efforts. Our country is capable of conducting evacuation operations, but it takes time. But we, as parents, are worried and helpless,” he said.

Red Zones and Communications Blockades Increasing Fear

A woman from another Kashmiri family said her youngest sister is currently in Iran and described the situation as tense and uncertain.

“Recently, we learned that their area and all of Tehran have been declared a red zone. Advisories were issued, but they were unable to return due to ongoing exams. We spoke to them last night; they said some missiles were being intercepted, but some were also hitting buildings. There is a lot of uncertainty and fear,” he said.

Parents’ Appeal: Safe Evacuation Necessary

“Our children are there, and the parents here are extremely worried at this time. We tried to contact the children, but it wasn’t possible. We appeal to the Indian government to do everything possible. Their condition is very bad; they haven’t slept properly in the last two or three days. Since Tehran has been declared a red zone, we request the government to at least relocate them from Tehran so that we can get some relief,” the family member said.

Hope for administrative and diplomatic action

Families in the Valley said they are in constant contact with authorities and have submitted their children’s details to the relevant departments. Many demanded swift diplomatic intervention to ensure the students’ safety, as prolonged uncertainty and limited communication have exacerbated their anxiety.

As tensions continue in parts of Iran, families are hoping for prompt and coordinated action to bring their children home safely.