Iran Protests: Indian Embassy asks students, other nationals to leave

The Indian embassy in Tehran on January 14 issued an advisory asking Indian students and other nationals currently in Iran to leave the country by available means, including commercial flights, in view of the evolving situation.

The advisory applies to Indian students, pilgrims, business persons and tourists. It follows an earlier advisory issued by the Government of India on January 5, 2025.

The embassy said that Indian citizens and Persons of Indian Origin should remain cautious, avoid areas witnessing protests or demonstrations, stay in contact with the Indian Embassy in Iran, and monitor local developments.

“It is reiterated that all Indian citizens and PIOs should exercise due caution, avoid areas of protests or demonstrations, stay in contact with the Indian Embassy in Iran and monitor local media for any developments,” the advisory said.

Indian nationals have been asked to keep their travel and immigration documents, including passports and identity documents, readily available. As per the advisory, the embassy has shared emergency helpline numbers — +989128109115, +989128109109, +989128109102, and +989932179359 — for assistance. Indian nationals can also contact the embassy through email at cons.tehran@mea.gov.in.

Iran Protests: Embassy seeks registration of Indians

Those who have not registered with the embassy have been asked to do so through the Ministry of External Affairs portal. Family members in India may complete the registration in case of internet disruptions.

“All Indian nationals who are in Iran, and who have not registered with the Indian Embassy, are requested to do so on the link (https://www.meaers.com/request/home). The link is also available on the Embassy website. In case any Indian national is unable to register due to internet disruptions in Iran, their families in India are requested to do so,” the advisory further said.

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Protests in Iran raise safety concerns

The advisory comes amid reports of protests and work stoppages in parts of Iran, including Tehran. Reports have indicated casualties and injuries during recent unrest, raising concerns over the safety of foreign nationals, including students.

In a related development, the Indian Youth Congress has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, seeking measures to ensure the safety of Indian medical students studying in Iran. The organisation cited concerns among students and their families and urged close monitoring of the situation and coordination with the Indian Embassy.

According to official estimates, a large number of Indian students are enrolled in medical colleges across Iran. Student groups have asked the government to keep contingency and evacuation arrangements in place if required.