JKSA urges Govt to relocate over 3,500 Kashmiri students in Bangladesh amid escalating protests

NEW DELHI: Amid the escalating protests against the 30% quota in government jobs in Bangladesh, the Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) has urged the Indian government to relocate and ensure the safety of Kashmiri students in Bangladesh. There are more than 3,500 Kashmiri students enrolled in different colleges and universities in Bangladesh, the JKSA said in a letter addressed to the Union minister of external affairs, S Jaishankar.

In view of the ongoing protests, the Indian High Commission in Dhaka has issued an advisory to the Indian students and Indian community members in the country. India has asked students to avoid local travels and minimise going outside their place of stay. It has also notified helpline numbers for Indians to contact in case of emergency.

The protests in Bangladesh were triggered by the Bangladesh High Court's decision to reinstate a 30% government job quota for the descendants of those who fought in the 1971 war of independence. These protests have resulted in several deaths and numerous injuries, causing fear and anxiety among Indian students, the students group said.

The JKSA informed the ministry that hundreds of students have contacted them expressing “severe anxiety regarding their personal security and demanding immediate relocation from their hostels to a safer environment”. It also pointed out that the continuing protests and violence is a threat to lives and academic pursuits.

“We have received distress calls from several Kashmiri students stranded in various universities and colleges. Scores of parents have also informed us that their children are scared and anxious due to the ongoing violence and unrest. The families back in Kashmir are deeply worried and concerned for their safety,” it said in the letter.