Amidst violent protests in B’desh,1000 students return to India

New Delhi: As student unrest escalates in Bangladesh, nearly 1,000 Indian students have returned home via land and air travel. Currently, 8,500 Indian students are studying in Bangladesh, out of a total of 15,000 Indians residing there. The Indian High Commission is actively in touch with around 4,000 of these students.

According to a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), “The High Commission of India in Dhaka, along with the Assistant High Commissions in Chittagong, Rajshahi, Sylhet, and Khulna, has been aiding the return of Indian nationals in light of recent developments in Bangladesh.”

The High Commission and Assistant High Commissions are working with local authorities to ensure safe travel to the border crossing points along the India-Bangladesh International Border. The MEA is also coordinating with civil aviation, immigration, land port, and BSF authorities to facilitate a smooth passage for returning citizens.

So far, 778 Indian students have returned via various land ports, and around 200 students have flown home through regular flight services from Dhaka and Chittagong airports. Additionally, students from Nepal and Bhutan have been assisted in crossing into India upon request.

The MEA emphasized, “The High Commission and Assistant High Commissions are in regular contact with Bangladeshi authorities to ensure the safety and security of Indian nationals and students. Security escorts have been arranged when necessary for travel by road during repatriation through select land ports.”

Furthermore, the High Commission in Dhaka is coordinating with Bangladeshi civil aviation authorities and commercial airlines to maintain uninterrupted flight services to India from Dhaka and Chittagong, facilitating the return of Indian nationals.

For any assistance, the High Commission of India in Dhaka and the Assistant High Commissions in Bangladesh are reachable through the emergency contact numbers listed on their website and social media handles.