Dehradun: The escalating conflict in the Middle East has left many families in Uttarakhand anxious, particularly in Ambadi village of Dehradun district. Several residents have relatives stranded in Iran, and their only source of comfort is a short, half-minute phone call that assures them of safety.
Zakir Hussain, a resident of Ambadi, is among those waiting for news. His daughter, who went to Iran to study Islamic studies, is stranded along with her husband. Hussain said he received a brief call last night, lasting barely half a minute. “My daughter only said, ‘Don’t worry, we’re fine,’ and then the line disconnected,” he recalled. Since then, he has been unable to reach her again.
Brother, sister-in-law, and their children are also in Iran
Hussain’s concern is compounded by his wife’s fragile health. “She already suffers from anxiety. I cannot tell her the full extent of the situation. If I do, her condition may worsen,” he said. His brother, sister-in-law, and their children are also in Iran, adding to the family’s distress.
Ayub Khan, another resident of Ambadi, faces similar worries. His wife and nephew have been studying Islamic studies in Tehran for the past four years. He said he received a call from his nephew on Wednesday night, who assured him that they were safe in their hostel, located about 100 kilometers from Tehran. “He is fine for now, but the situation could change at any moment,” Khan said.
Their concerns have not yet reached the central government or the Ministry of External Affairs
Families in Ambadi complain that their concerns have not yet reached the central government or the Ministry of External Affairs. While officials from the Local Intelligence Unit (LIU) visited once to collect details such as names, addresses, and passport numbers, no further contact or assurance has been given.
The uncertainty has left families restless. Every morning begins with the hope that a call will come, bringing news of safety. Hussain said, “I just want to know they are safe. My heart will not be at peace until I see them return to India.”
Families gathering to share updates and console each other
The atmosphere in Ambadi village is tense, with families gathering to share updates and console each other. The fear of worsening conditions in Iran has overshadowed daily life.
Now, these families are appealing to the government to intervene and ensure the safe return of their loved ones. With the conflict showing no signs of easing, their plea reflects the desperation of families who can do little but wait and hope.