Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, Mar 7: Families of students from Kashmir studying in Iran today expressed concern over the safety of their children and said they have been asked by authorities to wait until March 12 for further developments.
Parents who assembled at the Press Enclave here said that in a war situation even a short delay can be critical.
“But in a war situation even one minute matters, and that is what is worrying us,” said Abdul Gaffar, one of the parents, adding that he has not been able to contact his son for the past four days.
The parents said nearly 1,800 students from Kashmir are currently studying in Iran and urged the Government of India to arrange their immediate evacuation.
“We want them to be brought back home as soon as possible. Do not leave them on their own. Facilitate their return immediately,” said another parent, Tasleema Akhtar.
Akhtar said several students who were studying in Tehran have been relocated to Qom after the Iranian capital witnessed the most severe impact of the ongoing situation.
She added that the suspension of airline operations and the closure of borders have created uncertainty regarding evacuation.
Akhtar said the parents have taken up the issue with the authorities and were assured that the matter is being addressed.
“The Chief Minister has assured necessary assistance and the matter has also been taken up with the Lieutenant Governor’s administration,” she said.
She added that the parents met the Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, who asked them to wait for a few more days.
“We have been told to wait until March 12. Communication with the students is also not constant as the calls are sporadic,” she said.
Another parent, Muzammil Ahmad, said there is no regular communication with their children but expressed hope that the government and the Indian Embassy are taking steps to ensure their safety.
He added that most of the students are currently in Qom and families are hoping for their safe and immediate evacuation.
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