Tehran Denies Reports of Six Indian Students Arrested Amid Iran Protests

Tehran: Amid growing concerns over the safety of Indian nationals during ongoing protests in Iran, the Indian Ambassador in Tehran has clarified that reports claiming six Indian students were arrested are false.

The protests, which began on 28 December over rising inflation and currency devaluation, have entered their third week, claiming over 500 lives and leading to more than 10,670 arrests nationwide, according to U.S.-based human rights activists.

In response to circulating reports on social media suggesting that six Indians and ten Afghans had been detained in Tehran and other cities, India’s Ambassador to Iran, Mohammad Fathali, posted a clarification on X (formerly Twitter). He stated that these claims are “completely false” and urged people to rely only on verified sources for information regarding developments in Iran.

Ongoing Protests in Iran
The nationwide unrest, initially sparked by economic grievances, has evolved into a broader movement calling for the resignation of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Riza Pahlavi, the son of the former Shah, has also been appealing to protesters to intensify demonstrations. U.S. President Donald Trump publicly voiced support for people taking to the streets.

According to human rights agencies, at least 490 protesters and 48 security personnel have been killed since the demonstrations began. The Iranian government has not officially disclosed casualty figures.

Internet Shutdown
In response to the unrest, Iranian authorities have suspended internet and phone services. The blackout has made it difficult to independently verify the scale of violence and property damage on the ground.

Government Statement
Iranian President Masoud Pajeskhian has blamed the unrest on foreign interference, specifically citing the United States and Israel. He warned citizens to remain cautious, stating that individuals trained abroad are reportedly firing at civilians and instigating arson and vandalism to create chaos.