Several evacuees described weeks of growing uncertainty, worsened by widespread internet shutdowns that cut them off from their families and diplomatic channels. “For the first few weeks, things were normal. But in the last one or two weeks, the situation changed completely.
Indians return safely from Iran
New Delhi: Scenes of anxiety giving way to relief unfolded at Indira Gandhi International Airport late Friday as Indian nationals evacuated from Iran arrived home, following New Delhi’s advisory urging citizens to leave the country amid intensifying protests and a deteriorating security situation.
The returnees included students, pilgrims, business travellers and tourists who departed Iran after advisories issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the Indian Embassy in Tehran.
The government said it was closely monitoring developments in Iran and reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of Indian citizens abroad.
Several evacuees described weeks of growing uncertainty, worsened by widespread internet shutdowns that cut them off from their families and diplomatic channels. “For the first few weeks, things were normal. But in the last one or two weeks, the situation changed completely.
Protesters blocked roads and created problems whenever we stepped out. With the internet shut down, we could not even inform our families or reach the embassy,” one returnee said.
Another Indian national from Jammu and Kashmir spoke about the severity of the unrest. “The protests were dangerous. The Indian government made a very good effort and ensured the safe return of students,” he said.
Outside the arrival terminal, families waited anxiously, many after days of complete silence from loved ones due to communication blackouts. A man awaiting the arrival of his wife’s aunt, who had travelled to Iran on pilgrimage, expressed gratitude for the government’s response.
“Iran has always been friendly towards India, and we trusted the Modi government. They stood by us and made this possible. We are extremely relieved,” he said.
Another relative, whose sister-in-law was among the returnees, described the situation as deeply distressing. “It felt like a war-like situation. There was no internet and no way to contact her. We were constantly worried. We are thankful to the Government of India for bringing her back safely,” he said.
One family member shared that his mother and aunt were returning after three days without any communication. “We were very tense. Today, they are finally coming back home,” he said.
