Indian Embassy urges compatriots in Bangladesh to avoid travel as violent student protests claim six lives

Published on Authored by C to I News Desk

A travel advisory was issued by the Indian Embassy in Bangladesh on Thursday, urging compatriots residing in the country to avoid unnecessary outdoor movements in the wake of ongoing student protests in the neighbouring country, which has accounted for the loss of six lives.

Thousands have taken to the streets to protest the reinstatement of quota system in the country. Photo courtesy: Screengrab from X
Thousands have taken to the streets to protest the reinstatement of quota system in the country. Photo courtesy: Screengrab from X

“In view of the ongoing situation in Bangladesh, the Indian community members and the Indian students residing in Bangladesh are advised to avoid travel and minimise their movement outside their living premises,” the advisory stated.

The advisory has also issued 24-hour emergency helpline numbers for Indian citizens to reach out.

Student demonstrations in Bangladesh have taken an ugly turn as people demonstrated against the quota system.

As per reports, a child was among the six deceased. Several students in the country are outraged by a court’s decision to reinstate the quote system, six years after it was scrapped. The quota allows the reservation of 30 percent seats for the families of Muktijoddhas (veterans of the 1971 Independence War).

Meanwhile, Bangladeshi Prime Minister has urged the protestors to calm down, stating that her government has already moved the apex court challenging the June verdict. Hasina said a hearing date has been fixed in the Appellate Division.

“It is a matter of sorrow that some vested quarters started making different kinds of statements and engaged in terrorist activities to gain their ambitious intentions centring on this movement. As the matter has been brought before the top court, I call upon all to keep patience,” Sheikh Hasina said.