India cautions citizens against travelling to Bangladesh until further notice

In response to escalating violence in Bangladesh, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has issued a strong advisory urging Indian nationals to avoid travel to the country until further notice. The advisory comes amid a fresh wave of protests that have resulted in significant casualties and widespread unrest.

The MEA issued a statement highlighting the volatile situation in Bangladesh. It said, “In view of ongoing developments, Indian nationals are strongly advised against travelling to Bangladesh till further notice.” The Ministry also urged those currently residing in Bangladesh to exercise extreme caution, limit their movements, and stay in touch with the High Commission of India in Dhaka through emergency contact numbers, 8801958383679, 8801958383680, 8801937400591.

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The call for caution follows a violent outbreak that claimed the lives of 76 individuals, including 13 police officers, as per the reports. The violence has spread across several regions, including the capital Dhaka, and northern districts such as Bogura, Pabna, and Rangpur. Additional reports of unrest have emerged from Magura, Comilla, Barisal, and Feni.

The protests, initially sparked by student demands to eliminate a controversial quota system in government jobs, have grown into widespread demonstrations against Prime Minister Sheikh's government. The quota system, which initially allocated 30% of government positions to the families of veterans from Bangladesh's 1971 independence war, was later reduced to 5% following significant public backlash. Despite this concession, the protests persist, with demonstrators accusing the government of using excessive force to stifle dissent.

On Sunday, the Enayetpur police station in Sirajganj was attacked, although the attackers' identities remain unknown. The situation has led to a significant crackdown by authorities, with police employing tear gas and stun grenades to disperse the large crowds of protesters demanding Hasina's resignation.

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In response to the turmoil, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has labelled the protesters as ‘terrorists’ rather than students and called for a decisive response to their actions. To ensure public safety, the government has declared a three-day general holiday beginning Monday.

The MEA's advisory displays the seriousness of the current situation in Bangladesh and highlights the need for Indian nationals to stay informed and cautious. The High Commission of India in Dhaka remains a critical point of contact for Indian citizens in the region, providing emergency support and guidance amid the ongoing crisis.