Thiruvananthapuram :
As internal unrest intensifies in Iran, at least 12 students from Kerala remain stranded in different parts of the country, triggering serious concerns among their families back home. The students, who had travelled to Iran for higher studies, are reportedly facing increasing uncertainty due to worsening security conditions and movement restrictions.
Alarmed by the deteriorating situation, the families of the students have written urgent letters to Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), requesting immediate diplomatic and logistical intervention to ensure the students’ safety and possible evacuation.
Families Express Fear and Anxiety
According to family members, communication with the students has become intermittent, with reports of protests, roadblocks, and heightened security presence in several cities.
“Our children are living in constant fear. They are confined to hostels and rented accommodations, unsure of what may happen next,” said a parent of one of the stranded students.
The families said that while the students currently have access to food and basic necessities, the volatile situation could worsen at any time, making evacuation increasingly difficult.
Appeal to Government Authorities
In their letters, the families urged the Kerala government to coordinate with the Union government and ensure that the Indian Embassy in Iran takes proactive steps to monitor the students’ safety.
“We are requesting the authorities to intervene immediately, assess the ground situation, and prepare an evacuation plan if required,” the letter addressed to the MEA stated.
The families have also sought the establishment of a dedicated helpline and regular updates from official sources.
Official Response Awaited
As of now, no official statement has been issued by the Ministry of External Affairs regarding the students’ situation. However, sources indicated that the Indian Embassy in Tehran is closely monitoring developments and remains in contact with Indian nationals in the country.
A senior official familiar with the matter said:
“The safety of Indian citizens abroad is a priority. Necessary steps will be taken based on evolving ground realities.”
Rising Concerns Over Regional Stability
Iran has been witnessing heightened internal tensions, with sporadic clashes and security alerts in several regions. While foreign students have not been directly targeted, the unrest has raised concerns about travel safety and access to emergency assistance.
Political observers warn that prolonged instability could complicate evacuation efforts, particularly if airspace or transportation services are disrupted.
Kerala’s Past Interventions
Kerala has previously played an active role in coordinating with the Centre during crises involving expatriates and students abroad, including evacuations from conflict zones in Ukraine, Sudan, and West Asia.
Families of the stranded students hope a similar swift and coordinated response will be initiated in this case as well.
Sources:
• Families of stranded students
• Kerala government sources
• Ministry of External Affairs (officials familiar with the matter)
