Srinagar, June 19, 2025 – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced on Thursday, June 19, 2025, that 94 students evacuated from conflict-hit Iran under ‘Operation Sindhu’ will be transported from Delhi to their hometowns in the Union Territory in deluxe buses. The decision came after students expressed dissatisfaction with the poor condition of the initial non-AC buses arranged by the Jammu and Kashmir administration, prompting swift action from the Chief Minister’s Office.
The students, primarily enrolled at Urmia Medical University in Iran, were among 110 Indian nationals evacuated due to escalating tensions between Israel and Iran. They were relocated from northern Iran to Armenia by road, then flown to Doha, Qatar, before arriving at Delhi’s IGI Airport early Thursday. The Indian Embassy in Tehran, in coordination with the Ministry of External Affairs, facilitated the evacuation, earning praise from students for a smooth process despite the challenging circumstances. One student, Ghazal, told ANI, “We are all very happy that we returned home and the Indian Embassy evacuated us properly.”
However, frustration arose when students, exhausted from days of travel, found the buses provided for their onward journey to Jammu and Kashmir inadequate. A student told AajTak, “We’ve been traveling for three days continuously; we can’t travel in these buses.” Social media posts amplified their concerns, with some describing the buses as unfit even for animals. The Resident Commissioner has been tasked with coordinating with the JKRTC to ensure proper deluxe buses are arranged.”
Abdullah had been in close contact with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar since June 17, advocating for the safety of Kashmiri students in Iran. Reports indicated that around 4,000 Indian students, half from Jammu and Kashmir, are enrolled in medical and professional courses in Iran. The evacuation was prompted by heightened risks, including an alleged Israeli strike on a hostel occupied by Kashmiri students, causing minor injuries.
The deluxe buses, arranged through the Jammu & Kashmir Road Transport Corporation , aim to ensure a comfortable journey home for the students.
This initiative underscores Abdullah’s commitment to the welfare of Jammu and Kashmir’s youth, balancing regional concerns with national coordination amid a complex geopolitical crisis.
