In light of escalating tensions, the Indian Embassy in Tehran issued a notice on February 23 urging all Indian nationals, including students, to leave Iran via available commercial flights. However, for numerous students, departing is not a straightforward option. They express concern that missing their scheduled examinations may delay their graduation or impact the professional recognition of their degrees.

Students Fear Academic Disruption

Indian students studying in Iran have reached out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, seeking intervention following the advisory coinciding with university examinations set for March. A significant number of these students, particularly medical students hailing from Jammu and Kashmir, are currently enrolled in Iranian universities. They have indicated that their institutions have not yet postponed the examinations despite rising apprehensions regarding possible conflicts involving the United States.

One student, Bilal Bhat, a medical student in Iran, articulated the dilemma, stating, “We want to come back home. Our families are worried. But our exams are scheduled in March, and there is no clarity on postponement. If we miss exams, it will affect our academic year.” The students emphasize that they are not seeking an evacuation at this point but rather diplomatic discussions to persuade universities to consider rescheduling the examinations.

AIMSA Seeks Government Intervention

The All India Medical Students Association (AIMSA) has formally communicated with the Prime Minister’s Office, requesting urgent governmental intervention. The organization has urged the government to engage with Iranian authorities and educational institutions to adjust examination timelines if the situation worsens. Mohammad Momin Khan, AIMSA’s President from Jammu and Kashmir, remarked that students find themselves in an unprecedented predicament. He emphasized that the appeal is preventive, aimed at averting disruptions to education should travel become hazardous or restricted.

Rising Tensions Add to Uncertainty

This appeal arises amid reports of new protests and clashes at several Iranian universities. Concurrently, regional tensions have escalated due to a military buildup by the United States in connection with Iran’s nuclear program. Iranian officials have responded by warning that they would retaliate if their interests in West Asia come under threat.

Balancing Safety and Education

The students’ situation highlights the precarious balance between their academic commitments and the safety concerns raised by the advisory. As developments unfold, the urgency for a solution that allows both the academic pursuits and the safety of Indian students remains crucial.

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