SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association here on Friday has written to the Union Minister of External Affairs, Dr S Jaishankar, urging him to assist in the relocation and ensure the safety of thousands of Indian students, including students from Kashmir, who are currently studying in various universities and colleges across Bangladesh amidst escalating violence and unrest.
In a statement issued by the National Convenor of Association, Nasir Khuehami expressed deep concern over the severe conditions faced by Indian students following the violent protests in Bangladesh. These protests erupted after the Bangladesh High Court decided to reinstate a 30% government job quota for the descendants of those who participated in the 1971 War of Independence, leading to widespread chaos, multiple casualties, and injuries.
He expressed concern over the safety and well-being of Indian students, particularly those from Kashmir, who have been living in constant fear and anxiety. He said that we have received numerous distress calls from students pleading for immediate relocation to safer environments. The ongoing violence has significantly disrupted the students’ academic activities and posed serious threats to their lives. Parents have also expressed deep worry about their children’s safety due to the violence and unrest.
Khuehami noted that there are more than 3,500 Kashmiri students enrolled in different colleges and universities in Bangladesh. Every year, a large number of Kashmiri students join medical and other universities in Bangladesh for further studies.
In light of these circumstances, we request the Ministry of External Affairs to ensure the safety and swift relocation of Kashmiri students from the affected areas in Bangladesh. “We urge the Ministry to consider evacuating the students back to India until the situation in Bangladesh stabilizes and their safety can be guaranteed. Their safe return home should be a priority to prevent any further distress or potential harm,” he said.
