Indian Students Evacuated Amid Bangladesh Protests: High Commission Steps In

The Indian High Commission in Dhaka is coordinating with local authorities to ensure the safety of Indian students amid violent protests in Bangladesh over the government's job quota system. Border crossings have been identified for safe return, and advisories urge minimal travel due to escalating unrest.

In the midst of student protests in Bangladesh against the government's job quota system, the Indian High Commission in Dhaka is taking measures to ensure the safety of Indian students. These protests have led to dozens of casualties and increased tensions in the region.

The High Commission, in collaboration with the local authorities, Border Security Force (BSF), and the Bureau of Immigration, is facilitating the safe return of Indian students to India. On Friday, 245 Indian nationals, including 125 Indians and 13 Nepali students, crossed into India via the Gede border crossing in West Bengal.

The Indian government has designated three border crossings—Benapole-Petrapole, Gede-Darshana, and Akhaura-Agartala—as open for travel to aid in the safe return of Indian citizens. These efforts are part of a broader advisory urging Indian nationals in Bangladesh to avoid unnecessary travel and to minimize movement due to the ongoing disturbances.

Indian nationals in Bangladesh can seek assistance from the High Commission of India in Dhaka and the Assistant High Commissions of India. The advisory follows recent violent clashes between students and police, and the Bangladeshi government's decision to close all universities.

Student protests demand reform of the civil service job quota system, which reserves certain positions for specific groups. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has assured that all Indian nationals in Bangladesh are safe and that New Delhi is closely monitoring the situation. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized the importance of remaining in contact with the High Commission for regular updates and necessary assistance.

(With inputs from agencies.)