Srinagar, February 24, 2026 : Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday strongly urged students from the Union Territory studying in Iran to strictly follow the Union government’s advisory and return home while commercial flights are still operational.
The appeal comes after the Embassy of India issued a fresh advisory asking Indian nationals to “leave Iran by available means of transport, including commercial flights,” in view of the evolving security situation following renewed protests in the country.
Speaking to reporters in Ganderbal district of central Kashmir, Abdullah cautioned students against ignoring the advisory.
“I would tell them, please do not ignore this advisory from the Government of India, because otherwise it becomes an issue for us,” he said.
While noting that the situation in Iran is currently stable with airports open and flights operating, the Chief Minister stressed that the advisory was issued with foresight.
“The Ministry of External Affairs has not issued this advisory unnecessarily. If, God forbid, the situation worsens, evacuation will become a serious challenge. Therefore, I appeal to all students and workers there to take this seriously, book tickets and return,” he said.
Issue of Kashmiri Students in Punjab
Responding to queries about alleged harassment and eviction threats faced by Kashmiri students at CT University in Punjab, Abdullah said he would personally take up the matter with his counterpart.
“I will speak to the Punjab Chief Minister. The Punjab government has always supported Jammu and Kashmir. If any student is facing such difficulties, it will be addressed,” he assured.
Development Push in Ganderbal
Earlier in the day, Abdullah inaugurated and laid foundation stones for development projects worth Rs 84.41 crore in Ganderbal, the constituency he represents.
The projects include:
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Rs 7.70 crore for beautification and development of Ganderbal town
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Rs 7.50 crore for road widening
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Rs 8.40 crore for installation of a CT scan machine at the District Hospital
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Multiple water supply schemes
These initiatives aim to strengthen healthcare, sanitation, road connectivity and urban infrastructure in central Kashmir.
