Protecting Indian medical students in Iran
I am writing on behalf of Indian medical students currently studying in the Islamic Republic of Iran, many of whom have been facing an extremely challenging and uncertain situation over the past months. As representatives and well-wishers, we feel it is our responsibility to bring their concerns, fears, and resilience to light.
Earlier in January, the situation in Iran became tense, leading to a complete internet shutdown in several regions. Communication lines were severely disrupted. For Indian students living far from home, this sudden digital blackout created panic and isolation. Families in India were unable to reach their children, and students struggled to connect with their parents and representatives. During that period, some of our Indian medical students took extraordinary steps to ensure communication could be re-established.
A group of students travelled toward the Iraq border in an attempt to access connectivity and inform us about their safety. Similarly, students from the Urmia region went toward the Turkey border so they could get internet access and contact us at AIMSA. These were not acts of recklessness but acts of desperation — young students trying to reassure their families and seek guidance in a rapidly deteriorating environment. Despite the chaos, we maintained direct telephonic communication with many students whenever possible. In certain areas such as Urmia, internet connectivity was partially functional, which helped us coordinate and verify their safety.
The psychological toll on students was immense. Being in a foreign land during uncertainty, without stable communication, is an experience no student should have to endure. Now, as of March 3, the situation has again become tense. Reports of renewed conflict and explosions in and around certain regions have deeply frightened students, particularly those in Tehran. Many described hearing loud explosions, which understandably triggered fear and anxiety.
The memories of January’s communication blackout and instability are still fresh in their minds. However, this time, coordination has been more structured and proactive. We have remained connected with students through direct phone calls. Representatives on the ground have been actively gathering information and sharing real-time updates. Importantly, internet connectivity in regions like Urmia has remained functional, allowing smoother communication compared to the earlier shutdown. On March 3, Indian students in Tehran began relocation to safer locations under the guidance of the Embassy of India. The Embassy has taken precautionary steps to ensure the safety and well-being of our students. They have been provided with proper transportation arrangements, and the relocation process has been carried out in an organized manner.
We are thankful to the Embassy officials for their timely response and support. In times of crisis, diplomatic coordination becomes a lifeline for citizens abroad. The swift decision to move students to safer areas demonstrates sensitivity to the ground situation and the concerns of parents back home. It is important to understand that these students are primarily pursuing medical education. They left India with dreams of becoming doctors, serving humanity, and contributing to society.
Instead, they have found themselves navigating war-like uncertainty, internet shutdowns, and the emotional strain of being away from family during crisis. Parents in India have been understandably anxious. Many have been in constant touch, seeking updates and reassurance.
As representatives, we urge parents to remain calm and united. Panic can spread quickly in such circumstances, but verified information and coordinated action are crucial. This situation highlights the broader need for robust emergency preparedness mechanisms for Indian students studying abroad. Clear communication channels, verified regional coordinators, and rapid embassy response systems are essential.
Despite the fear and uncertainty, one thing stands out: the resilience of our students. Even amid explosions and instability, they have shown discipline, unity, and maturity. They have followed instructions, stayed in touch, and cooperated fully with relocation efforts. Their courage deserves recognition.
We will continue to monitor the situation closely. Further updates, including visual documentation, will be shared as soon as possible to maintain transparency and reassure families. Our primary demand remains clear: the safety and security of every Indian student in Iran must be ensured.
Their lives and mental well-being are paramount. We remain committed to standing with them, raising their concerns responsibly, and coordinating with authorities until complete stability is restored. In these difficult times, unity, patience, and coordinated effort are our strongest tools. We pray for peace, safety, and swift normalisation of the situation so that our students can return to their academic pursuits without fear.
Dr Momin Khan is President of AIMSA, Jammu and Kashmir; views are personal
