JKSA urges Jaishankar to evacuate Kashmiri students from violence-hit Bangladesh

Srinagar, July 19: The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) here on Friday wrote to the Union Minister of External Affairs, D. S. Jaishankar, urging him to assist in the relocation and ensure the safety of thousands of Indian students, including thousands of 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, the JKSA 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’s decision 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 studying in various colleges and universities, 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.

He emphasised the urgent need for the Indian Embassy’s assistance in ensuring safe passage for the students to the airports, as travelling independently has become perilous due to the current situation.

Kashmiri students have requested "us to take up the matter with the Government of India to facilitate their earliest evacuation" fearing that the protests and unrest will not subside soon. "They need the Indian embassy's assistance to safely reach the airports, as travelling on their own is not safe."

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, he said.

"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."

The Association emphasised the urgency of the matter and urged the Ministry to take immediate steps to coordinate with relevant authorities in Bangladesh to facilitate the safe evacuation of Indian students.