Evacuated From Iran, Students Thank Modi Govt But Slam J&K Bus Conditions; Omar Abdullah Steps In
The 110 students, all enrolled at Urmia Medical University in Iran, arrived in Delhi early in the morning as part of India's 'Operation Sindhu.'
Over a hundred Indian students who were evacuated from conflict-hit Iran have voiced mixed emotions after reaching Delhi. While they expressed gratitude to the Indian government for their safe return, concerns over the travel arrangements made for their onward journey to Jammu and Kashmir have drawn sharp criticism.
Long Journey Home Amid Rising Tensions
The 110 students, all enrolled at Urmia Medical University in Iran, arrived in Delhi early in the morning as part of India's 'Operation Sindhu.' This special evacuation mission was initiated amid escalating tensions in the Middle East that have left families of approximately 13,000 Indian students studying in Iran deeply worried.
The Chief Minister has taken note of the request of the students evacuated from Iran regarding the quality of buses arranged to transport them from Delhi to J&K. The Resident Commissioner has been tasked with coordinating with the JKRTC to ensure proper deluxe buses are arranged.
— Office of Chief Minister, J&K (@CM_JnK) June 19, 2025
Recounting their harrowing experience, one of the students, Ali, told NDTV, "It was a difficult journey for us. There were a lot of attacks, mostly in Tehran." He further revealed the terrifying moment when a missile landed close to their bus while they were in transit. "We were very scared," he added.
The students were first assisted by Indian embassy officials, who facilitated their crossing into Armenia by land. "They (the Indian embassy officials) first helped us cross the land border to Armenia, where we stayed for a day. Then we came to Delhi," Ali said, acknowledging the embassy's crucial role in ensuring their safety.
Poor Bus Conditions Spark Outrage
However, relief soon gave way to frustration once the students saw the buses arranged for their travel from Delhi to Jammu and Kashmir. Shaikh Afsa, one of the evacuees and a resident of Kashmir, said they were too "tired" to endure another long journey in vehicles that were not up to standard.
"The buses that they have been provided were not in a stable condition," she said, adding that she has personally reached out to Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for better arrangements.
Chief Minister Promises Action
Responding promptly to the students' complaints, Omar Abdullah's office said it has "taken note" of the concerns raised. The office is now coordinating with the Jammu and Kashmir State Road Transport Corporation to arrange "proper deluxe buses" for the students.
Even as they await improved travel arrangements, the students remain anxious about the ongoing conflict disrupting their studies. "We have our practical classes and we need to return as soon as possible," one student remarked, highlighting the growing impact of the Israel-Iran conflict on their academic future.
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