The Indian High Commission in Bangladesh has issued a strong advisory to Indian citizens residing in the country to avoid travel and minimize their movement due to escalating violence from ongoing protests. The unrest, driven by demands for reforms in the government job quota system, has resulted in at least six deaths and widespread disruptions.
On Thursday, the High Commission urged the Indian community and students in Bangladesh to remain within their living premises and to exercise caution. This advisory followed violent clashes between protesters and members of the ruling Awami League’s student front, the Bangladesh Chhatra League.
“In view of the ongoing situation in Bangladesh, the Indian community members and the Indian students residing in Bangladesh are advised to avoid travel and minimise their movement outside their living premises,” read the statement. For those requiring assistance, the mission provided multiple 24-hour emergency contact numbers.
Approximately 7,000 Indians currently reside in Bangladesh, according to the High Commission’s website.
The violence intensified on Monday when activists from the ruling party’s student wing confronted protesters. These demonstrators argue that the current quota system unfairly prevents meritorious students from securing government jobs. The existing system reserves 56% of government jobs for specific groups, including descendants of the 1971 Liberation War freedom fighters, women, backward administrative districts, ethnic minorities, and people with disabilities. Each year, nearly 400,000 graduates vie for approximately 3,000 government positions, exacerbating competition and frustration among job seekers.
In response to the escalating violence, the Bangladeshi government ordered the indefinite closure of all public and private universities, schools, and colleges on Tuesday night, instructing residential students to vacate their dormitories.
Protesters have announced a nationwide shutdown on Thursday to press their demands further, creating additional concerns for safety and security.
The Indian High Commission has urged Indian nationals to remain vigilant and to contact the following emergency numbers for any assistance:
High Commission of India, Dhaka: +880-1937400591 (also on WhatsApp)
Assistant High Commission of India, Chittagong: +880-1814654797 / +880-1814654799 (also on WhatsApp)
Assistant High Commission of India, Rajshahi: +880-1788148696 (also on WhatsApp)
Assistant High Commission of India, Sylhet: +880-1313076411 (also on WhatsApp)
Assistant High Commission of India, Khulna: +880-1812817799 (also on WhatsApp)
As the situation remains volatile, Indian citizens in Bangladesh are advised to stay informed through official channels and adhere to the guidance provided by the Indian High Commission.