IIOJK Students Face Serious Threats Across Indian States

As a result of escalation in IIOJK, Kashmiri students across India are being driven out of universities and hostels, gripped by fear and uncertainty in what should have been a secure environment for learning.

Tensions are on the rise in several Indian states, as an alarming number of incidents involving threats, harassment, and even violence against Kashmiri students from Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) have come to light. States such as Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Karnataka have reported increasing hostility, with right-wing activists openly demanding the removal of Kashmiri students from educational institutions.

This growing animosity has left many Kashmiri students in a state of distress. Far from home, they are now forced to make the difficult decision of returning to IIOJK, abandoning their academic pursuits due to overwhelming safety concerns.

Hundreds of these students have already made their way back home. Their stories reveal a deep emotional toll, with many sharing how fear has taken over their lives. For some, dreams of higher education are being crushed under the weight of threats and intimidation.

Uttarakhand has seen some of the most severe incidents. Students there have received direct threats from extremist groups, prompting mass panic. Many have been compelled to flee their campuses, seeking safety in the face of constant fear. The danger isn’t limited to physical harm—it’s the anxiety and emotional burden of living under threat that’s causing immense trauma.

Educational leaders and professors are also speaking out. Several have urged universities to delay examinations for Kashmiri students by at least two to three weeks. They argue that given the ongoing turmoil, it’s nearly impossible for these students to focus or study effectively. The situation isn’t just disrupting their academics—it’s deeply impacting their mental health.

Calls for support have reached the political arena as well. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi publicly condemned the attacks, calling them unjust and discriminatory. He emphasised the importance of unity, compassion, and support in such turbulent times.

The unfolding crisis has highlighted a troubling national issue—one where students who travel for a better future now find themselves living in fear. While many institutions are trying to offer help, the current atmosphere makes it difficult for affected students to feel safe or supported.