India issues strict advisory amid deadly unrest in Iran, citizens and students told to stay indoors
New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Amid violent protests and near civil-war conditions in Iran, the Indian government has issued a strict advisory for Indian nationals living in the country. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri on Monday clearly advised Indian citizens, especially students, to remain indoors and avoid stepping out under any circumstances. He also urged them to stay away from protest sites and public gatherings.
Speaking during a special media briefing following the visit of German Chancellor Friedrich Merz to India, the Foreign Secretary said that the government is closely monitoring the rapidly evolving situation in Iran, where a large number of Indian nationals and students are currently residing.
Despite severe restrictions, the Indian Embassy in Iran has remained in continuous contact with the Indian community. Misri said that all Indian citizens are safe so far and no major difficulties have been reported. However, as a precautionary measure, they have been strictly advised to stay inside their homes until the situation stabilizes.
The situation in Iran has turned extremely grim. According to reports by human rights organizations, at least 544 people have been killed so far during nationwide protests and security crackdowns. The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency has claimed that the deceased include 496 protesters and 48 security personnel. Over the past two weeks, more than 10,600 people have reportedly been detained, with activists warning that the actual figures may be significantly higher.
Assessment of the ground situation has become difficult due to the Iranian government shutting down internet services and cutting phone lines across several regions. Because of information restrictions, even international agencies such as the Associated Press have been unable to independently verify the casualty figures. The Iranian government has not released any official data regarding deaths or detentions so far.