The MEA, Ministry of External Affairs, took steps to evacuate the Indians stuck in Iran as the situation got worse in that country. It was just after midnight on Friday that the first batch of Indians landing in Delhi was part of this operation.
Returnees Tell What It Was Like
As soon as they arrived, the media got to hear what the returnees had to say about the conditions in Iran. They mentioned that there were riots in many places. They declared it dangerous to go out in the streets. They painted a picture of the atmosphere as hostile and scary. They mentioned that the bodies of some protestors lay in the streets and the cries for help were ringing in their ears.
Interruption in Communication Builds Up Fear
The returnees confessed that the closure of the internet made communication impossible. They couldn't communicate with their relatives back in India. They also couldn't get through to the officials of the Ministry of External Affairs. This separation was a source of fear and nervousness. They remarked that the two weeks' time was very long and full of uncertainties.
Sigh of Relief After Secured Evacuation
A lot of the returnees said that they had already given up on the idea of going back home. They thanked the central government and Prime Minister Modi for their safe return during such a hard time. Their relatives who were at the airport waiting for them said that it had been several days since they last heard from their loved ones. They expressed deep concern and anxiety because of the turmoil in Iran but at the same time, they were relieved when they saw the returnees arriving safely.
Indians Remaining in Iran
Authorities predict that there are still over 10,000 Indians, including students, in Iran at the moment. The Indian Embassy in Tehran is trying to reach these people in different places. Unfortunately, internet cuts in a number of locations are causing difficulties. In some places, internet services are only partially available.
