The Jammu and Kashmir government has appointed Anil Sharma, Additional Resident Commissioner in New Delhi, as the nodal officer to coordinate the safety and welfare of its residents and students currently in Iran. This decision, announced on Thursday, January 15, 2026, comes amid prevailing tensions and widespread protests across Iran. The nodal officer's role involves liaising with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the Indian Embassy in Tehran, and other relevant authorities to facilitate information sharing, coordination, and necessary interventions for the well-being and potential travel assistance of these individuals. The appointment follows growing concerns among families and appeals from various student associations, including the All India Medical Students Association (AIMSA), and political figures like former J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who spoke to External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar regarding the evolving situation. The protests in Iran, described as significant since 2022, are reportedly linked to economic distress and rising living costs. Some reports also highlight escalating tensions between Iran and Israel as a factor contributing to the precarious situation. The Ministry of External Affairs has confirmed that the Indian Embassy in Tehran is closely monitoring the security situation and is engaging with Indian students to ensure their safety. Options such as relocating students to safer places within Iran are being examined, and advisories have been issued urging Indian nationals to remain vigilant and avoid affected areas. While the article title's 'LIVE' descriptor implies immediate coverage of ongoing events, the J&K government's swift action and the continuous monitoring by Indian authorities underscore the urgency of the situation for Indian citizens in Iran.