Indian Students Returning Amidst Bangladesh Civil Unrest
20.07.2024: The ongoing civil unrest in Bangladesh has sparked a significant exodus of Indian students seeking safe passage back home. As tensions escalate over protests concerning government job quotas, the Indian High Commission in Dhaka is actively aiding the return of students through various channels.
Current Status of Indian Students Returning
Since the onset of unrest, 778 Indian students have safely returned via land ports, while an additional 200 have flown back through Dhaka and Chittagong airports. The Indian High Commission continues to engage with over 4,000 students still in Bangladesh, ensuring their safety and facilitating their return as conditions permit.
Assistance and Coordination Efforts
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has collaborated closely with civil aviation, immigration authorities, land ports, and the Border Security Force (BSF) to streamline travel arrangements for Indian nationals. This coordinated effort aims to ensure a smooth and secure passage amidst the evolving situation.
Student Experiences and Challenges
Many students faced challenges reaching airports due to curfews and canceled flights amid the unrest. Despite efforts, numerous Indian students remain housed in university hostels, where conditions remain relatively calm but uncertain.
An Indian student returning from Bangladesh shared with NDTV, “Many had booked air tickets, but due to the curfew and flight cancellations, they were unable to travel. There are still many students in hostels where the atmosphere is relatively peaceful.”
Situation Overview in Bangladesh
The protests, rooted in discontent over a government job quota system, have intensified across Bangladesh. Triggered by clashes between student activists, security forces, and pro-government groups, the unrest has led to nationwide shutdowns and indefinite closures of universities.
The quota system reserves a significant portion of government jobs for descendants of veterans from Bangladesh’s independence war, a policy viewed as discriminatory by protesters advocating for a merit-based system.
Escalation and Government Response
The escalation has resulted in at least 115 fatalities, prompting Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government to impose a curfew and deploy the military to restore order. The deployment followed failed attempts by police to quell the unrest, underscoring the severity and volatility of the situation.
As the situation unfolds, the Indian High Commission and relevant authorities continue to monitor developments closely, prioritizing the safety and well-being of Indian citizens in Bangladesh. The collaborative efforts aim to navigate challenges and provide necessary support amid the evolving crisis.