India’s Ministry of External Affairs has urged Indian citizens in Bangladesh to follow local advisories and stay indoors due to a nationwide strike against the government’s job quota system.
Current Situation in Bangladesh
On Friday, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) advised Indians living in Bangladesh to stay indoors and limit their movements. This advice comes in response to ongoing nationwide protests against the Bangladeshi government’s job quota system.
MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal shared this message on social media, emphasizing that the Indian High Commission in Dhaka and assistant high commissions are available to help Indian nationals in Bangladesh through their helpline numbers.
Key Points from the Advisory:
- Stay Indoors: The Indian High Commission has advised all Indian citizens and students in Bangladesh to avoid unnecessary travel and stay inside their homes.
- Reason for Advisory: The advisory is due to widespread violence and protests across the country. Demonstrations have been intense, with government buildings being set on fire and a nationwide internet blackout imposed by the Sheikh Hasina government.
Details of the Protests
- Number of Casualties: At least 39 people have been killed this week, with 32 deaths occurring on Thursday alone.
- Injuries: Over 2,500 people have been injured during the protests.
- Protest Focus: The demonstrations are centered around the job quota system that reserves more than half of government jobs for specific groups, including children of war veterans from the 1971 liberation war against Pakistan.
- Historical Context: In 2018, PM Sheikh Hasina had decided to end this reservation system following protests, but in June of this year, the Bangladesh High Court overturned that decision. The Supreme Court has scheduled a hearing for August 7 to review the government’s appeal.
Recent Developments:
- Student Protests: University students have been protesting in the capital city, Dhaka, demanding changes to the quota system.
- Government Response: The police and student wing members of Hasina’s Awami League party have clashed with protesters, using rubber bullets, tear gas, and noise grenades.
- Damaged Property: On Thursday, protesters set fire to the state broadcaster’s building after PM Sheikh Hasina appeared on the network to address the protests.
Advice for Indian Citizens in Bangladesh
- Follow Local Advisories: The MEA and the Indian High Commission advise Indians in Bangladesh to follow local safety advisories.
- Contact for Help: Indian nationals can reach out to the High Commission for assistance through the provided helpline numbers.
Indian authorities are advising citizens and students in Bangladesh to stay indoors due to a violent nationwide strike against the government’s job quota system. The situation has led to significant unrest, with numerous casualties, injuries, and a nationwide internet blackout. Indian nationals can reach out to the Indian High Commission for assistance during this challenging time.
