Anxiety, relief and gratitude filled Indira Gandhi International Airport late Friday (January 16) as several Indian nationals returned from Iran. Their arrival came days after the Indian government advised citizens to leave the country due to rising protests and a worsening security situation.
Earlier, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the Indian Embassy in Tehran issued advisories urging Indians to depart using available transport. These advisories applied to students, pilgrims, tourists and businesspeople. The government said it was closely monitoring developments and remained committed to the safety of its citizens.
After landing in Delhi, many returnees described difficult conditions in Iran. Protests intensified in recent weeks, while authorities imposed movement restrictions and shut down internet services. One returnee said the situation had become unsafe. He added that the Indian Embassy shared timely information and helped people leave quickly. Another Indian national said protesters often blocked roads and created fear. He explained that internet shutdowns cut off contact with families and increased anxiety.
Meanwhile, a resident of Jammu and Kashmir recalled the seriousness of the unrest. He said protests had turned dangerous and praised the Indian government for bringing students back safely.
Outside the arrival gate, families waited anxiously for their loved ones. Many had not heard from relatives for days due to communication blackouts. A man waiting for his wife’s aunt, who had gone to Iran on pilgrimage, said his family trusted the Indian government’s response. He thanked authorities for ensuring her safe return.
Similarly, another relative described the situation as “war-like.” He said his family felt helpless when they could not contact his sister-in-law. Others shared similar concerns, including a man whose mother and aunt returned after three days without communication.
According to officials, the unrest in Iran began on December 28 at Tehran’s Grand Bazaar after the Iranian rial fell to record lows. Since then, protests have spread nationwide. Economic stress, water shortages, power cuts, unemployment and high inflation have fuelled public anger.
Finally, the MEA advised Indians to avoid travel to Iran until further notice. Officials said more citizens may return in the coming days as coordination with the Indian Embassy continues.
