Kashmiri students stranded at Iran-Azerbaijan border await evacuation

Srinagar, Mar 19: Hundreds of Indian nationals, a majority of them medical students from Kashmir, remain stranded near the Astara border crossing on the Iran-Azerbaijan frontier, with movement restricted to a slow and limited process.

Students said only around 10 individuals are being allowed to cross into Azerbaijan each day, leaving many stuck less than a kilometre from the border for days.

“The number of students being allowed to pass is just a trickle. At this pace, we may still be stuck here for weeks,” a student from Srinagar studying at Tehran Medical University said.

Many of the stranded students had confirmed flight bookings from Baku to New Delhi between March 17 and 19, but were unable to cross the border in time. Several said they have incurred financial losses after missing flights and remain uncertain about when they will be permitted to move.

“We cannot book new tickets because there is no clarity on when we will be allowed to cross,” another student said.

The students said they were shifted from Tehran to Qom over two weeks ago and later moved closer to the Azerbaijan border. While authorities have arranged food and accommodation, uncertainty over evacuation continues to cause distress.

“We have food and shelter, but what we need is clarity. That is what is missing,” a student said.

According to official statements, the Government of India is facilitating evacuations through neighbouring countries, though the process remains slow. External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal acknowledged that movement through Azerbaijan “is somewhat slower,” adding that 110 Indian nationals were currently crossing through that route.

He said 772 Indians have crossed into Armenia and are on their way back, while around 882 Indian nationals—including students, pilgrims and businesspersons—remain in Iran. Officials also noted that some Indians had not registered with the Embassy.

Back home in Kashmir, anxiety among families is mounting.

Parents said their children are under stress due to prolonged uncertainty, communication gaps and financial strain.

“Our children are scared, and we are helpless,” said Mohammed Anwar.

Another parent, Suhail Muzamil, said the situation has taken an emotional toll. “They are stuck far from home with no clear timeline. Eid is approaching, but there is no sense of relief.”

Parents also reported that some students have fallen ill amid the uncertainty. “The festive occasion only adds to their distress,” a family member said.

With evacuation moving slowly, stranded students continue to wait near the border, hoping for faster clearance and a safe return home.