Behind the Chaos: Exploring the Root Causes of Hostel Violence in Kyrgyzstan
18.05.2024: Tensions flared in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, after videos of a fight between local Kyrgyz students and foreign students, including Pakistanis and Egyptians, went viral. This sparked mob violence against hostels housing international students, leading to advisories from both India and Pakistan urging their students to stay indoors.
Rising Tensions and Immediate Responses
In response to the violence, the Indian consulate posted on X (formerly Twitter) that law enforcement agencies in Kyrgyzstan acted swiftly to detain those involved in the incident, both locals and foreigners. The consulate assured that the situation was under control and that the safety of citizens and public order were maintained. Indian Foreign Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar advised all Indian students in Bishkek to stay in regular touch with the embassy for updates.
What is Happening in Bishkek?
Pakistan issued a warning to its students in Kyrgyzstan after several incidents of violence targeted Pakistani students. Kyrgyz police mobilized forces to quell the violence, during which hundreds of Kyrgyz men attacked hostels housing Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi students. Riot police were deployed as large crowds gathered in anger over the alleged fight between local and foreign students.
The Role of Social Media
Videos circulated on social media showed mobs breaking doors and attacking international students. In response, Pakistan set up emergency hotlines for those affected and expressed readiness to evacuate any Pakistani citizens wishing to leave immediately. Despite alarming social media posts claiming deaths and assaults on Pakistani students, the Pakistani Consulate stated that no confirmed reports had been received.
Why Did Tensions Escalate?
According to local media, the violence was triggered by videos of a fight between Kyrgyz and foreign students that went viral on social media. The fight, which occurred on May 13, was perceived by locals as a violation of the hospitality extended to foreign students. This led to widespread anger and subsequent attacks on medical university hostels housing international students.
Indian Students in Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyzstan is a popular destination for Indian students pursuing an MBBS, with an estimated 15,000 Indian students in the country. The affordability and quality of medical education, along with international recognition of degrees, make Kyrgyzstan an attractive option. Despite the recent violence, a recent advisory from the Indian government described Kyrgyzstan as generally safe and friendly towards Indian nationals.
Ensuring Student Safety
Both India and Pakistan are closely monitoring the situation to ensure the safety of their students. The violence has underscored the need for enhanced security and support for international students in Kyrgyzstan.