Chikkaballapur, 17 June

Over 100 people from Alipur, a predominantly Shia Muslim village in Chikkaballapur district remain stranded in Iran, as tensions escalate between Tehran and Israel. They include students, families, and working professionals who had travelled to Iran for education, business, and religious pursuits.

Indian authorities, along with the embassy in Tehran and local State officials are closely monitoring the situation and coordinating safe arrangements for those stuck.

Alipur has around 25,000 people. The village is known for its deep religious and cultural ties with Iran, making it a common destination for theological and medical studies.

"In Qom, there are around 50 people, and about 15 students are pursuing MBBS in Tehran. Another 25 to 30 people are involved in business in cities like Qom and Mashhad. In total, around 100 people from Alipur, including families and children are currently in Iran," said Maulana Syed Mohammad Yousha Abedi, Imam of Masjid-e-Jafaria in Alipur.

Following the recent Israeli airstrikes, most residents from Alipur who were in various Iranian cities have been moved to safer areas.

"The Indian Embassy has been in touch and has helped shift many of them from Tehran to Qom," the Imam added.

Several families from the village are anxiously awaiting the return of their loved ones. Mir Zahid Raza, father of Mir Nazar Abbas, confirmed that four of his family members — including a four-year-old and a 13-year-old — are still in Iran. "They’re safe, but we are worried".

Tafseel Zehra, whose brother and his family have lived in Iran for over eight years, said, "The government assured us they’ll bring them back safely.”

Shafeeq Abidi, a well-known Urdu poet and former journalist from Alipur elaborated.

"Alipur shares a religious bond with Iran — nearly 90 per cent of our population is Shia Muslim, and Iran is a Shia-majority country. Many go there to study Islamic theology and some pursue MBBS because it’s more affordable. Iran offers religious freedom and education," he explained.

Meanwhile, Anjuman Jafaria, the community body in Alipur, has submitted full details of those stranded to local authorities and the Indian Embassy. Police and officials from the State government are also extending support to affected families.