New Delhi/Kargil, March 2026 — Authorities in Ladakh and the Central Government are working round-the-clock to secure the safe return of Zawar pilgrims from Iran, where the closure of Iranian airspace has temporarily halted air evacuation.

In a detailed statement issued today, a senior Ladakh representative expressed deep concern for the stranded pilgrims and outlined the multi-pronged efforts being undertaken in coordination with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). 

“Due to the closure of Iranian airspace, evacuation by air is presently not feasible,” the statement noted. However, the Government of India has initiated arrangements to move the pilgrims safely to Yerevan (Armenia), from where their onward journey to India will be organised. The Deputy Commissioner, Kargil, has been designated to coordinate the entire process, ensuring seamless communication and ground-level assistance to the affected families.

The representative met Union Minister Kiren Rijiju today to discuss the specific concerns of Ladakh’s Zawar pilgrims and received assurances of full support from the Centre. 
The statement also firmly debunked rumours circulating on social media claiming that the Indian Embassy in Iran is charging money from Zawars and Indian students. “This is not correct,” it clarified. Embassy officials have been working tirelessly under difficult conditions and have responded positively to every request raised. Most issues faced by the pilgrims have already been resolved.

The representative maintained continuous contact with heads of various Zawar groups, who confirmed that current arrangements are satisfactory. Initial financial difficulties reported by some pilgrims were promptly addressed after the matter was taken up with the Ministry of External Affairs, resulting in the provision of accommodation and necessary assistance.

Sincere gratitude was extended to the Embassy of India in Iran, the Ministry of External Affairs, and the Ministry of Home Affairs for their dedicated efforts in this challenging situation.

The statement concluded with an appeal to the people of Ladakh: “Kindly avoid spreading false information on social media and rely only on verified updates.” The representative assured that close coordination with all concerned authorities will continue until every stranded pilgrim returns home safely.