The first group of nine Kashmiri students, evacuated from Iran amidst the ongoing conflict, arrived home on Thursday. While the operation, dubbed Operation Sindhu, was successful in bringing back a total of 110 Indian students, including 94 from Kashmir, criticism has arisen regarding the travel arrangements provided by the Jammu and Kashmir government. Students expressed disappointment over the lack of direct flights from Delhi to Srinagar and the use of poorly maintained SRTC buses for the journey. One student, Saba Rasool, voiced frustration, highlighting the uncomfortable conditions. The Ministry of External Affairs and the Prime Minister’s Office received praise for their efforts, while the state government faced criticism for logistical shortcomings. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah apologized and promised to replace the buses with better options after public outcry, as the Jammu and Kashmir Student Union highlighted issues online.
