Students from JK in Iran to be coordinated through newly appointed nodal officer

The Jammu and Kashmir government has nominated a nodal officer to coordinate with students and residents from the union territory currently studying or residing in Iran, amid the prevailing situation in the country.

The order issued by the General Administration Department (GAD) said that Anil Sharma, JKAS, Additional Resident Commissioner of the Jammu and Kashmir Government in New Delhi, has been designated for coordination and liaison with concerned agencies in respect of JK residents and students in Iran.

As per the order, the nominated officer will liaise with India’s external affairs ministry, the Indian embassy and consular authorities in Iran, and other relevant agencies to facilitate information sharing and coordination. The role also includes enabling necessary interventions related to the safety, welfare, travel facilitation and other related matters concerning residents and students from Jammu and Kashmir.

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“The officer shall coordinate and liaise with the Ministry of External Affairs, the concerned Embassy/Consular authorities and other relevant agencies,” the order read.

Earlier on January 14, the Indian Embassy in Tehran issued an advisory urging Indian students and other nationals in Iran to depart the country using available options, including commercial flights, amid the evolving situation.

Iran Protests and safety concerns

The GAD order follows reports of protests and work stoppages in several parts of Iran, including Tehran, with recent unrest resulting in injuries and casualties, prompting concerns about the safety of foreign nationals and students.

The Indian Youth Congress has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and external affairs minister S Jaishankar, urging steps to safeguard Indian medical students in Iran. Citing anxiety among students and their families, the organisation called for close monitoring of the situation and coordination with the Indian Embassy.

Official estimates suggest that a significant number of Indian students are pursuing medical education in Iran. Student bodies have also urged the government to keep contingency and evacuation plans ready, should the situation worsen.