Parents of scores of Kashmiris studying in Bangladesh have expressed concern over the deteriorating situation in the country.
The worrisome situation has triggered political reactions from Kashmir, with political parties demanding the safeguard of the over 5000 Kashmiri students studying in the country.
Speaking to The Kashmiriyat, Syed Muheet, whose brother studies at a medical college in Dhaka said that they are worried about the safety of their kin the internet services have been barred in the country.
“I called my brother around 7 over whatsapp and he told us that the situation was growing worse as the streets were filled with protestors and policemen clashing. He also informed us that the death toll was constantly rising and the University authorities were inaccessible to most of the students,” said Muheet.
Earlier, The Kashmiriyat reported that amid the violent protests raging in Bangladesh, Kashmiri students studying in the country expressed concerns over their safety and demanded immediate relocation from their hostels.
At least 39 people have been killed and over 2,500 injured in Bangladesh due to violent clashes between students, government supporters, and armed police during protests against service job quotas.
The unrest began last month after the High Court reinstated a quota system, reserving 30 percent of government jobs for the families of freedom fighters and veterans from the 1971 War of Independence.
The Supreme Court has since suspended the High Court’s order and will hear the government’s appeal on August 7.
“We do not know if our children are safe. They had told us that they are unable to get out of their hostels. The Embassy has asked them to wait till further communication. We are really worried. Most of them have lost contact with eachother. We do not know if they even have someone to look after them,” said Manzoor Ahmed, another parent, whose daughter is studying MBBS in Bangladesh.
“Please ensure the safe passage and return of Kashmiri students from Bangladesh amidst the ongoing unrest. Parents of these students are extremely worried as there is no or little communication,” Aga Ruhulla Mehdi wrote to Ministry of External Affairs.
“External Affairs Minister (EAM) is himself following the matter closely. Our High Commission will be providing regular updates. I will also be posting regular updates. I would urge family members to follow us for the latest developments,” an MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in a weekly press briefing.
“We remain committed to providing all possible assistance to our nationals in Bangladesh. Around 8,500 students among 15,000 Indian nationals are in Bangladesh. We are aware of the measures taken by the local authorities in view of the protests. Our High Commission remains in touch with local authorities for the safety of our nationals,” the spokesperson added.
Mehbooba Mufti, the former Chief Minister of Jammu Kashmir wrote to her x account, “As protests & turmoil grip Bangladesh I urge @DrSJaishankar to urgently intervene & ensure safety of thousands of Kashmiri students in Bangladesh. Internet services being suspended has only added to the distress of their parents. Immediate steps must be taken to bring them back home.”