Diplomat Correspondent
Srinagar, (DD) The first batch of nine Kashmiri students stranded in Iran amid the escalating regional conflict returned home today bringing relief to their anxious families and marking the beginning of a much-anticipated evacuation effort.
Among the returnees was Saba, a resident of Safa Kadal in Downtown Srinagar, who was warmly received by her family. “I’m happy that I’ve finally reached home. I came with eight other students from Iran,” she said.
However, Saba also voiced concern over the lack of direct air travel arrangements between Delhi and Srinagar. “After such a tiring journey, we expected the government to provide flights, but we were asked to travel by SRTC buses instead,” she said, expressing dissatisfaction with the Omar Abdullah-led administration.
Earlier, the Chief Minister’s Office stated on social media that CM Omar Abdullah had taken note of the matter and directed the Resident Commissioner to ensure proper coordination with JKRTC for deluxe sleeper bus arrangements. “The government is making arrangements for their smooth journey home,” the post said.
The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) also acknowledged the government’s intervention, stating, “While our main demand remains the provision of connecting flights, we appreciate the prompt response by CM’s advisor Nasir Aslam Wani Sahab, who ensured sleeper buses were arranged on short notice.”
Meanwhile, families of other Kashmiri students still stranded in Iran continue to appeal for swift action, urging the administration to expedite their evacuation and ensure safer, more comfortable travel options.(DD)