The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene, citing severe security concerns for approximately 9,000 Indian medical students in Bangladesh. This appeal follows escalating violence and unrest, particularly in Dhaka, sparked by the death of a student protest leader.
The JKSA sent a letter to Prime Minister Modi. It highlighted fear, uncertainty, and deteriorating security conditions for Indian students. More than 4,000 students from the Kashmir Valley are among those pursuing medical education in Bangladesh.
Students Trapped by Unrest
The students’ association reported receiving distress calls from students and their families. These calls detail students’ fear and movement restrictions.
Many students are currently confined to their hostels. They face concerns about being caught in the violence. The JKSA also noted reports of students being advised to conceal their identity for safety reasons.
| Student Group | Approximate Number of Students |
|---|---|
| Total Indian Medical Students in Bangladesh | 9,000 |
| Students from Kashmir Valley | 4,000+ |
Escalating Violence and Protests
Violence erupted in Bangladesh after the death of Sharif Osman Hadi . Hadi, 32, was a senior leader of the student protest group Inqilab Mancha. Masked attackers shot him while he left a mosque in Dhaka.
Hundreds of supporters protested in Dhaka following Hadi’s death. They vandalized and set fire to offices of major newspapers. The interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, declared national mourning. The government also vowed to bring those responsible to justice.
The JKSA flagged additional concerns regarding the death and lynching of a student leader. The report did not specify if this referred to Hadi or another individual. This incident further heightened anxiety among students.
Calls for Intervention and Evacuation
JKSA National Convenor Nasir Khuehami emphasized the urgency of the situation. He stated, “If the situation of tension and violence continues or worsens, the Government of India should kindly consider making arrangements to evacuate and bring back Indian students safely to India, so that no young life is put at risk.”
Kashmiri students specifically urged Prime Minister Modi to intervene directly. They requested the Ministry of External Affairs and the Indian High Commission in Dhaka to engage with the Bangladeshi government. The goal is to secure assurances for the safety, dignity, and well-being of all Indian students.
Immediate Demands from JKSA:
- Prime Minister’s direct intervention for student safety.
- Engagement by the Ministry of External Affairs and Indian High Commission with Bangladeshi authorities.
- Official assurances for Indian students’ security and well-being.
- Consideration for student evacuation if violence escalates further.
The Indian government has not yet issued a public statement regarding the JKSA’s appeal. Students and their families await official action. They seek clarity on safety measures and potential evacuation plans.