Audio Clip Reassures Kashmiri families amid unrest
Srinagar, Jan 12: Families across Kashmir are feeling worried and unsure after days of silence from students studying in Iran. Due to civil unrest and internet shutdowns, parents have been unable to contact their children.
However, a short audio message from a Kashmiri girl studying in Iran has briefly eased some fears, as she assured her family she is safe.
The message was shared through a friend travelling to Afghanistan and has become a small hope for many families waiting for updates.
“Don’t worry, I am fine. I spoke to brother ji and others as well,” she says in the message, which was recorded on her phone and forwarded through a friend who was travelling to Afghanistan.
The audio reached the girl’s family after her friend arrived there.
The clip, circulating quietly among parents’ groups, has become the only lifeline of hope for dozens of families unable to reach their children. Many said phone lines and messaging apps have remained down for nearly four days amid the unrest.
Amid rising panic, the Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar, urging them to ensure the safety, security, and welfare of Indian students stranded in Iran.
“Parents are extremely distressed and unable to connect with their children. We have been receiving continuous distress calls from families across the Valley,” said Nasir Khuehami, National Convenor of JKSA. “Nearly 2,000 Kashmiri students are pursuing medical education across provinces, including Tehran, Urumiyeh, Arak, Mazandaran, Kish, Ahvaz, Esfahan, Shiraz, Golestan and Kerman.”
He said the Association has sought round-the-clock communication lines between the Indian Embassy in Tehran and students, as well as an emergency evacuation plan if the security situation deteriorates.
The JKSA said it has urged the government to act swiftly if conditions worsen.
Meanwhile, Dr Mohammad Momin Khan, Vice President of the All India Medical Students Association (AIMSA) and FAIMA Doctors Association, said all Indian students in Iran are safe.
He said all exams and classes have been suspended till January 24.
Khan said he was unable to respond to every call and message, but assured that all students are safe.
“We trust the Embassy and authorities. Please rely only on official updates,” he told KNO—(KNO)
