DHAKA: The Indian High Commission in Bangladesh has issued a strong advisory to Indian citizens residing in the country to avoid travel and minimize their movement in light of escalating violence from ongoing protests. The unrest, stemming from demands for reforms in the government job quota system, has resulted in at least six deaths and widespread disruptions.
The Indian High Commission’s statement on Thursday urged the Indian community and students in Bangladesh to remain within their living premises and to exercise caution. The advisory came after violent clashes between protesters and members of the ruling Awami League’s student front, the Bangladesh Chhatra League.
“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,” read the statement. For those requiring assistance, the mission provided multiple 24-hour emergency contact numbers.
Approximately 7,000 Indians currently reside in Bangladesh, according to the high commission’s website.
The violence intensified on Monday when activists from the ruling party’s student wing confronted protesters who argued that the current quota system unfairly prevents meritorious students from securing government jobs. Demonstrators claim the quota system, which reserves 56% of government jobs, is skewed and hinders the recruitment of deserving candidates.
The existing quota system allocates 30 per cent of government jobs to descendants of the 1971 Liberation War freedom fighters, 10 per cent to women, 10 per cent to backward administrative districts, 5 per cent to ethnic minorities, and 1 per cent to people with disabilities. Each year, nearly 400,000 graduates vie for approximately 3,000 government positions, intensifying the competition and frustrations among job seekers.
In response to the escalating violence, the Bangladeshi government ordered the indefinite closure of all public and private universities, schools, and colleges on Tuesday night, instructing residential students to vacate their dormitories.
Protesters have announced a nationwide shutdown on Thursday to press their demands further, creating additional concerns for safety and security.
The Indian High Commission has urged Indian nationals to remain vigilant and to contact the following emergency numbers for any assistance:
High Commission of India, Dhaka: +880-1937400591 (also on WhatsApp)
Assistant High Commission of India, Chittagong: +880-1814654797 / +880-1814654799 (also on WhatsApp)
Assistant High Commission of India, Rajshahi: +880-1788148696 (also on WhatsApp)
Assistant High Commission of India, Sylhet: +880-1313076411 (also on WhatsApp)
Assistant High Commission of India, Khulna: +880-1812817799 (also on WhatsApp)
As the situation remains volatile, Indian citizens in Bangladesh are advised to stay informed through official channels and adhere to the guidance provided by the Indian High Commission.