Over 7,200 Indian Students Return From Bangladesh Amid Unrest, Says Government

New Delhi: Over 7,200 Indian students have returned to India from Bangladesh in the past couple of weeks, ending on August 1, due to unrest in the neighboring country, the government informed the Rajya Sabha on Thursday.

Government Efforts and Coordination

Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, revealed that about 19,000 Indian citizens, including over 9,000 students, reside in Bangladesh. He stated that the High Commission of India in Dhaka and the Assistant High Commissions in Chittagong, Rajshahi, Sylhet, and Khulna are assisting with the voluntary return of Indian nationals. They are also coordinating with Bangladeshi authorities to ensure the safety and security of Indians during their stay and travel to airports and land ports along the India-Bangladesh border.

Return of Indian Nationals

The Ministry of External Affairs is working with Indian authorities to facilitate a smooth passage for returning citizens at land ports and airports. Singh confirmed that over 7,200 Indian students returned to India between July 18 and August 1, 2024.

Indian Community in Bangladesh

Indian students in Bangladesh come from various regions, including Jammu and Kashmir, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, West Bengal, Tripura, and Assam. The government does not maintain a state-wise list of those who have voluntarily departed from Bangladesh.

Related Developments

• Indian Students in Canada: Singh responded to a query about Indian student intake in Canadian universities, confirming an increase over the last three years, with figures reaching 427,085.
• Chinese Influence: Singh stated that the government is vigilant about activities in neighboring countries affecting India’s interests. The “Neighbourhood First Policy” guides India’s approach to neighboring countries, emphasizing education, culture, trade, and investment.
• Pilgrimage to Kartarpur: Over the past three years, 96,555 Indian pilgrims visited Gurudwara Shri Darbar Sahib Kartarpur in Pakistan.
• India’s Role in Israel-Palestine Conflict: India condemned terror attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023, and provided humanitarian aid to Gaza, calling for a ceasefire and peaceful resolution through dialogue.

This coordinated effort highlights the government’s commitment to the safety and well-being of its citizens abroad. The situation in Bangladesh continues to be monitored closely to ensure the security of remaining Indian nationals.