His appeal follows a fresh advisory issued by the Embassy of India, asking Indian citizens to “leave Iran by available means of transport, including commercial flights,” amid growing unrest triggered by protests after 40-day memorials for people killed during anti-government rallies in January.
Abdullah cautioned that ignoring the advisory could lead to panic among families back home.
“I want to tell the students of Jammu and Kashmir to leave immediately. If the airspace is closed tomorrow, their parents will panic. They should return before it comes to that. When an advisory is issued, it must be taken seriously,” he said.
The NC president was speaking to reporters after paying tributes to the party’s former general secretary, Sheikh Nazir Ahmad, on his eleventh death anniversary at Soura on the outskirts of Srinagar. Abdullah described Ahmad as a pillar of strength for the party, saying his dedication played a crucial role in strengthening the National Conference.
On a positive note, Abdullah extended his best wishes to the Jammu and Kashmir cricket team, which is facing Karnataka in the Ranji Trophy final — the team’s first-ever appearance in the summit clash.
“We congratulate them for reaching this far and pray that they return victorious,” he said.
Commenting on the film Kerala Story 2, Abdullah criticised sections of the media, alleging a lack of credibility. “Media integrity must be strengthened. Until then, people will not trust what is being shown or said,” he remarked.
Abdullah concluded by expressing hope that the National Conference would continue to uphold the vision of its founders and remain committed to public service.
