Srinagar, Feb 28 (NationPress) The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) has urgently appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for intervention to guarantee the safety and evacuation of Indian students stranded in Iran.

Nasir Kheuhami, the national convenor of JKSA, emphasized that a letter was sent to PM Modi requesting immediate action to protect the safety, academic interests, and potential evacuation of Indian students currently in the Islamic Republic of Iran, against the backdrop of rising military tensions.

The Association articulated serious concerns regarding the highly unstable and perilous security situation that has arisen following the recent increase in hostilities.

"On February 28, 2026, reports emerged indicating that the Israeli Defense Forces executed significant strikes on Iranian soil, particularly around Tehran, resulting in multiple explosions and the imposition of emergency protocols due to fears of further escalation," the letter stated.

"The gravity of the situation has led to disruptions in airspace and increased risks for civilian populations. The rapidly changing security landscape has fostered an environment of anxiety, uncertainty, and severe risk for foreign nationals, including thousands of Indian students spread across various cities in Iran," it further stated.

"A large proportion of these students hail from the Kashmir Valley, pursuing professional studies, especially in MBBS and related medical fields, at Iranian universities, which are known for their relatively affordable and well-structured academic programs," the JKSA noted.

The Association remarked that students now face an increasingly perilous environment, experiencing restricted movements, communication issues, and the looming threat of escalating hostilities.

Kheuhami pointed out that advisories were issued on February 23, urging Indian nationals to leave Iran due to rising tensions.

"Nonetheless, many students have found it difficult to exit, mainly due to ongoing semester exams and the critical nature of two nationwide examinations in Iran; the Uloompaya (Comprehensive Basic Science Examination) and the Pre-Internship Examination, set for March 5, 2026, under the auspices of the Ministry of Health and Medical Education of Iran.

These exams are essential milestones in the medical academic journey and are crucial for academic advancement. Without an official announcement regarding postponement or deferment, students fear that leaving now could jeopardize their academic future and negate years of hard work. Consequently, numerous students are caught in an agonizing dilemma, having to choose between personal safety in a conflict-prone area and the continuity of their academic pursuits," the letter expressed.

The lack of consistent and timely communication from some institutions regarding exam schedules has further heightened anxiety and confusion among students, the national convenor added, stressing that coordinated diplomatic engagement and structured contingency planning are essential for ensuring the safe movement and potential evacuation of Indian citizens if conditions worsen.

“Equally concerning is the emotional state of parents and families in Kashmir, who remain deeply worried and anxious as they follow the situation and struggle to maintain steady contact with their children. The psychological impact on families is substantial, and this ongoing uncertainty has only amplified their fears," the statement said.

Faizan Nabi, the Association's Iran Coordinator, urged the Prime Minister to facilitate immediate and effective coordination among the Ministry of External Affairs, the Indian Embassy in Tehran, Iranian officials, and relevant university administrations.

If necessary, organized evacuations should be conducted through appropriate diplomatic and logistical measures, including safe transit routes via neighboring countries, Nabi proposed.

He expressed confidence in the Government of India, which has consistently shown a strong commitment to protecting its citizens during global crises, to take all necessary actions to ensure the safety, dignity, and academic futures of Indian students in Iran, as reiterated by the JKSA.