Nearly 1,000 Indian students have returned to India from Bangladesh either through land transit points or by air, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed on Saturday amid ongoing unrest in the neighboring country that has reportedly claimed more than 90 lives.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar reiterated that the MEA's top priority is ensuring the safety and well-being of Indians in Bangladesh.
Indian diplomatic missions in Bangladesh remain in constant contact with local authorities to ensure the security of Indian nationals and students, the MEA stated.
“Thus far, 778 Indian students have returned to India through various land ports. In addition, around 200 students have returned home by regular flight services through Dhaka and Chittagong airports,” it said.
Bangladesh has been grappling with deadly clashes as students protest against the Sheikh Hasina government's controversial job quota system.
Reports from Dhaka indicate that more than 90 people have died in the weeks-long clashes, though an exact toll has yet to be confirmed.
Law enforcement in Bangladesh has imposed a nationwide curfew amidst ongoing confrontations between protesters and police across the country.
Expressing gratitude for the concern shown by families and well-wishers of Indian nationals in Bangladesh, Jaishankar underscored the MEA's commitment to their safety and well-being.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal previously estimated there are approximately 15,000 Indian nationals in Bangladesh.
The MEA detailed efforts by the Indian High Commission in Dhaka and Assistant High Commissions in Chittagong, Rajshahi, Sylhet, and Khulna to facilitate the safe return of Indian nationals.
“In coordination with the local authorities, measures are being taken by the High Commission and the Assistant High Commissions to facilitate safe travel to the border crossing points along the India-Bangladesh international border,” it said in a statement.
“The MEA is also coordinating with civil aviation, immigration, land ports and BSF authorities to ensure a smooth passage for our citizens,” it said.
The MEA emphasized ongoing communication with over 4,000 Indian students still in Bangladesh, ensuring they receive necessary support.
Moreover, assistance has been extended to students from Nepal and Bhutan for their return to India upon request.
“Security escorts have also been arranged, where necessary, for their travel by road during repatriation through select land ports,” the MEA said.
“The High Commission in Dhaka is also coordinating with civil aviation authorities of Bangladesh and commercial airlines to ensure uninterrupted flight services to India from Dhaka and Chittagong, which can be used by our nationals to return to home,” it said.
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