Srinagar, June 20: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Friday said that so far 110 Indian students, including 90 from Jammu and Kashmir, have been safely evacuated from Iran amid escalating tensions in the region.
Deputy CM further informed that a Cabinet subcommittee has submitted its report on the reservation policy and that the government will take a final decision once the report is examined and approved by the Cabinet.
He also said preparations for the 38-day-long Amarnath Yatra 2025 have been finalised, with parallel arrangements in place for the observance of Muharram.
Talking to reporters in Jammu on the sidelines of the inaugural event, Choudhary said that Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has personally reviewed the arrangements for the yatra and held multiple meetings with senior civil and police officials to ensure a safe and smooth pilgrimage. The yatra is scheduled to begin on July 3 and culminate on August 16.
“The government is fully prepared. Alongside the Amarnath Yatra, Muharram will also be observed, and necessary measures have been taken for both events,” he said.
Regarding the evacuation of Indian students from Iran, the Deputy CM said that under operation Sindu, conducted in coordination with central agencies and ensured the safe return of all 110 students, including those from Jammu and Kashmir.
“The students have been brought back safely, and there was full coordination between central and state authorities throughout the process,” he said.
Choudhary also announced the opening of the Chief Minister’s Public Services and Outreach Office (RAABTA) in Jammu, modeled on the existing facility in Kashmir. “Officers will be stationed at the Jammu RAABTA office to address public grievances and improve citizen-government interface,” he said.
Choudhary reiterated the administration’s focus on maintaining law and order during the yatra and ensuring that both the religious pilgrimage and Muharram processions proceed without disruption.
