A group of 110 Indian medical students from Iran’s Urmia Medical University arrived in New Delhi early this morning, marking the first successful evacuation under India's Operation Sindhu. While the students expressed gratitude to the Indian government for ensuring their safe return amid rising tensions in the Middle East, many voiced concerns over inadequate transportation arrangements provided by the Jammu and Kashmir government for their onward journey home.
The students transited via Armenia and Doha before boarding a delayed flight to Delhi, assisted throughout by Indian embassy officials. “It was a difficult journey for us. There were many attacks, especially in Tehran,” said Ali, a student who returned this morning. “A missile even landed near our bus. We were very scared.”
The Indian embassy facilitated the students’ safe exit through a land border into Armenia, where they stayed overnight before continuing to India. Many students commended the prompt response of Indian authorities in facilitating their evacuation.
However, the relief turned into discomfort once they reached Delhi. Students from Jammu and Kashmir expressed dissatisfaction over the condition of buses arranged for their travel from Delhi back to their hometowns. “We’re tired and the buses provided are not in stable condition,” said Shaikh Afsa, a resident of Kashmir. She appealed to Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for alternate travel arrangements.
In response, the Chief Minister’s Office stated it has “taken note” of the students’ concerns and is coordinating with the Jammu and Kashmir State Road Transport Corporation (JKSRTC) to ensure proper deluxe buses are provided.
The recent escalation in conflict between Israel and Iran has raised alarms among families of over 13,000 Indian students currently studying in Iran. While thankful to be back, many of the evacuees hope for a swift resolution to the conflict, citing disruptions to their medical education. “Our practical classes are pending. We need to return as soon as it is safe,” one student said.
India’s Operation Sindhu continues to monitor the situation, with further evacuation efforts expected depending on regional developments.
(This story is published from a syndicated feed)