In a story that has captured the hearts of many, 94 students from Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), who were stranded in war-torn Iran, are finally making their way home. Their journey, marked by relief, gratitude, and a few bumps along the way, highlights both the challenges and the efforts made to ensure their safe return.
The Ordeal in Iran
The students, most of whom were studying at Urmia University in Iran, found themselves caught in a worsening conflict. The situation in Tehran, in particular, was described as "very bad" by those who experienced it firsthand. As tensions escalated, the Indian government launched Operation Sindhu, a special evacuation mission to bring its citizens back to safety.
One student shared, "The situation over there is worsening by the day. It is particularly very bad in Tehran. Indian students are being evacuated from there. We are from Urmia University. The Indian authorities are doing a good job. All students are being evacuated and taken to a safer place".
A Journey Across Borders
The evacuation itself was a complex operation. The students were first moved to Armenia, then flown to Doha, and finally arrived in Delhi early on Thursday morning. This multi-stage journey was exhausting, but the students expressed deep gratitude to the Indian government for their safe passage out of Iran.
Ghazal, another student, said, "We are all very happy that we returned home and the Indian Embassy evacuated us properly. We are very thankful to them... The situation in Urmia, where we lived, was much better than in Tehran".
The Last Leg: Buses from Delhi to Kashmir
While the evacuation from Iran was smooth, the students faced an unexpected challenge upon reaching Delhi. The buses arranged for their journey back to Kashmir were found to be in poor condition. Many students, already tired and stressed, voiced their disappointment, saying the buses were uncomfortable and not suitable for such a long journey.
One student remarked, "The buses that have been provided are in such bad condition that even animals will not travel in them. We can't go in such buses, and our safety could have been compromised".
Government Response: Deluxe Buses Promised
The backlash from students did not go unnoticed. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah responded quickly, assuring the students and their families that proper deluxe buses would be arranged for the journey home. The Resident Commissioner was tasked with coordinating with the Jammu & Kashmir Road Transport Corporation (JKRTC) to ensure comfortable travel for the returning students.
In a statement, the Chief Minister's Office said, "The Chief Minister has taken note of the request of the students evacuated from Iran regarding the quality of buses arranged to transport them from Delhi to J&K. The Resident Commissioner has been tasked with coordinating with the JKRTC to ensure proper deluxe buses are arranged".
Looking Ahead: Lessons and Reflections
This episode highlights the importance of not just bringing citizens home from conflict zones, but also ensuring their comfort and dignity during the final stages of their journey. The swift response by the J&K administration to student complaints shows a willingness to listen and adapt, but it also underscores the need for better planning in such operations.
For the students and their families, the journey is more than just a return home; it is a story of resilience, hope, and the expectation of care from those responsible for their safety. As they travel back to Kashmir in deluxe buses, their experience serves as a reminder that the last mile of any rescue mission is just as important as the first.
Final Thoughts
The homecoming of J&K students from Iran is a story of relief, gratitude, and learning. While the evacuation was a success, the initial oversight in transport arrangements sparked an important conversation about the quality of care provided to returning citizens. With the promise of deluxe buses, the government has shown responsiveness, ensuring that these young people return not just safely, but also in comfort—a fitting end to a difficult journey.
With inputs from agencies
Image Source: Multiple agencies
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