Consul General of Iran in Mumbai, Saeid Reza Mosayeb Motlagh, responds to questions posed by mid-day’s ASIF RIZVI on the status of Indian students stuck in Iran
Saeid Reza Mosayeb Motlagh, Consul General of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Mumbai. Pic/Iranian Consulate in Mumbai
Amidst growing security concerns for Indian medical students stranded in Iran owing to the ongoing conflict, officials at the Iranian Consulate in Mumbai have responded to queries regarding their safety, upcoming examinations, access to essential facilities during the current hostilities, and possible return arrangements. mid-day contacted the Iranian Embassy in Mumbai to seek clarity on some burning questions.
Iranians drive past a banner bearing a portrait of Iran’s slain supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and reading in Persian “His God is still alive” in Tehran on March 3. PIC/AFP
An official from the mission, attributing the response to the Consul General of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Mumbai, Saeid Reza Mosayeb Motlagh, said the safety and well-being of foreign students, including those from India, remain a priority.
Excerpts from a Q&A addressed to the Consul General.
What measures are being taken to ensure the safety of international students?
The Government of Iran is making every effort to protect all foreign nationals residing in Iran, including Indian citizens, in the same manner it protects its own. We are currently engaged in a war with two of the most bloodthirsty regimes in the world — the United States and Israel. Despite this, the Government of Iran has devoted all its efforts to safeguarding the lives of its citizens and resident foreigners and, to the fullest extent possible — even setting aside certain regulations in the current crisis — has sought to facilitate the departure of foreign nationals from the country. Naturally, should circumstances permit, and in cooperation with the Government of India, the arrangement of extraordinary flights could expedite the departure of Indian nationals from Iran.
Saeid Reza Mosayeb Motlagh, Consul General of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Mumbai. Pic/Iranian Consulate in Mumbai
Are there any plans to reschedule or conduct examinations online?
Yes, certainly. Universities, depending on the circumstances, will adopt appropriate measures such as postponing examinations or conducting them online and will duly inform students through proper channels.
What arrangements are being made to assist students facing internet disruptions?
Any potential disruption of internet services may arise due to special circumstances and would naturally affect all Iranian nationals as well. It should be borne in mind that, in such situations, the representatives of the Republic of India in Iran are expected to act more proactively and devise mechanisms to facilitate communication between their nationals and India under special conditions.
Is there a formal coordination mechanism between Iranian universities and foreign embassies?
Yes, such coordination — similar to the previous crisis (the 12-day war between the Zionist regime and the Islamic Republic of Iran) — is conducted through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Indian missions in Tehran may liaise either through Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs or directly with the universities where Indian students in Iran are enrolled.
What support systems are in place for students who may be unable to leave due to academic commitments or travel restrictions?
A support mechanism aimed at expediting the departure of foreign students — through cooperation with the Government of India in arranging extraordinary flights at the appropriate time, waiving certain legal formalities, and similar measures — has been or will be implemented during this crisis.
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