Over 240 Indians Return Amid Deadly Bangladesh Quota Protests

Protests over government job quotas in Bangladesh have turned deadly, resulting in the return of over 240 Indian citizens. This article examines the escalating situation, the reasons behind the protests, and the efforts made by the Indian government to ensure the safety of its nationals.

Background of the Protests:

The protests in Bangladesh, primarily led by students, are against the Sheikh Hasina-led government’s job quota system. This system reserves a significant portion of government jobs for certain groups, which protesters argue is discriminatory and prevents meritorious candidates from securing positions. The reinstatement of these quotas by Bangladesh’s High Court has triggered widespread demonstrations.

Casualties and Government Response:

The protests have resulted in clashes with police and paramilitary forces, leading to the deaths of 64 people. Despite a ban on public gatherings, the violence has continued to escalate. The Bangladeshi authorities have shut down all public and private educational institutions indefinitely, severely disrupting the lives of many students.

Evacuation of Indian Citizens:

The Indian government has facilitated the return of 245 Indian citizens, including 125 students, from Bangladesh. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has been closely monitoring the situation and working with local authorities to ensure the safe passage of Indian nationals. The Indian High Commission in Dhaka has played a crucial role in coordinating these efforts.

Personal Accounts:

Among those who returned is Asif Hussain, a medical student from Manikganj district, about 50 km from Dhaka. Hussain described his harrowing journey under a security escort to the India-Bangladesh border. Despite not being directly affected by the violence, he and 80 other Indian students hired private taxis to travel to the border, facing further delays before finally crossing into India.

Impact on Communication Networks:

The ongoing protests have also severely affected communication networks in Bangladesh, with mobile internet services cut off in many areas. This has made it challenging for Indian nationals to stay informed and communicate with their families.

MEA’s Advisory and Helpline:

The MEA has issued an advisory for Indian nationals in Bangladesh to avoid unnecessary travel and stay indoors. Multiple helplines have been activated to assist Indian nationals and provide regular updates to families.

Broader Implications:

The protests in Bangladesh highlight the broader issue of government job quotas and the impact of such policies on society. The Indian government’s swift response to ensure the safety of its nationals underscores the importance of international cooperation in times of crisis.

The deadly protests in Bangladesh over government job quotas have led to the return of over 240 Indian citizens. This situation underscores the need for addressing underlying social and political issues and ensuring the safety and security of all nationals in times of crisis.