Image: The Hindu
Indian students stranded in Iran are now using Armenia and Azerbaijan for evacuation. Parents are anxious as the slow pace raises safety concerns.
GlipzoAs the conflict in Iran escalates, Indian students, particularly those from Kashmir, are finding themselves caught in a precarious situation. In a recent development, about 151 Indians successfully crossed the Iran-Azerbaijan border in just 24 hours, marking a significant step in their journey back to New Delhi. However, the slow pace of this evacuation has left many parents deeply concerned about the safety of their children still stranded in the war-torn region.
The routes through Armenia and Azerbaijan are now open for these students, providing hope for families who have been anxiously waiting for news. Prior to this, only those attending medical colleges close to Armenia had the opportunity to leave, but the newly opened corridor via Azerbaijan is expected to facilitate a quicker evacuation process. Khalid Jamal, a relative of one of the stranded students, expressed cautious optimism about the Azerbaijan route, stating, "While this could help in evacuating the students faster, the pace is still concerning."
Notably, this is the first time India has engaged with Azerbaijan since diplomatic relations soured during Operation Sindoor. In 2025, Indian officials suspected Azerbaijan of supporting Pakistan’s military activities, which had complicated any potential cooperation. Nevertheless, recent efforts to improve relations appear to be yielding some results, as officials from both nations collaborate to expedite the evacuation of stranded students.
However, the process is not without complications. Azerbaijan has implemented strict controls on the number of individuals allowed to cross the border daily, citing the need for thorough security checks. Reports indicate that only about ten individuals of a particular nationality can exit per day, further dragging out the timeline for many students eager to return home.
The situation is becoming increasingly dire for some students who are facing health issues. Parents from Kashmir report that approximately 250 students remain stuck at the Azerbaijan border, many suffering from chest infections and influenza. The lack of access to necessary medications has exacerbated their plight, and financial difficulties are adding to their woes. Suhail Muzamil Qadri, a concerned father, revealed that some students have run out of funds and are struggling to cope with their circumstances.
"A group of around 18 students with tickets for March 14 was finally allowed to cross, along with others who had tickets for the 18th, 19th, and 20th. However, those with tickets for the 15th, 16th, and 17th remain in limbo," Qadri explained, highlighting the chaotic nature of the evacuation process.
As the conflict continues, the number of students affected is significant. It is estimated that over 1,000 students from Jammu and Kashmir are enrolled in various professional courses across Iran. While many have managed to return home in recent days, the uncertainty surrounding the remaining students has raised alarms.
Dr. Mohammad Momin Khan, vice president of the All India Medical Students Association (AIMSA), is closely monitoring the situation. He noted, "Several students are still at the border, unable to cross. The financial losses incurred due to wasted flight tickets add to their distress and uncertainty."
The plight of these Indian students is not just a matter of individual concern; it reflects broader geopolitical tensions and the challenges of navigating safety in conflict zones. The struggles they face are emblematic of the risks many students encounter when pursuing education abroad in volatile regions.
As the situation evolves, families and officials alike are hoping for a swift resolution that prioritizes the safety of the students. With ongoing discussions between India and Azerbaijan, there's cautious optimism that more students will soon be able to leave Iran.
In the coming days, parents and officials will be closely monitoring the situation at the Iran-Azerbaijan border. Key developments to watch include:
As the situation remains fluid, it emphasizes the importance of diplomatic relations and the need for immediate action to ensure the safety of students caught in the crossfire of international conflicts. The world will be watching closely as these students navigate their path back home.
Thousands were evacuated in Colombes, Paris, as authorities safely detonated a WWII bomb. Learn about the operation and its implications.
BBC World
Tragedy strikes Shreveport as eight children are killed in a shooting. Understand the implications and community response to this heartbreaking event.
BBC World
Discover the shocking conspiracy behind a Vadodara pan parlour owner's kidnapping, involving his wife and a former lover. What led to this sinister plot?
Indian Express