In the wake of escalating political unrest in Bangladesh, the Indian High Commission in Dhaka has assured that it remains operational and has released helpline numbers for Indian nationals currently residing in the country. The situation in Bangladesh has been fluid, with significant developments affecting both the political landscape and international travel.
Despite the turbulence in Bangladesh, the Indian High Commission continues to function, with diplomats and officials remaining in Dhaka. However, non-essential staff and their families were evacuated early on August 7. The High Commission has reiterated that its helplines are fully operational and has provided the following contact numbers for Indian nationals needing assistance: +8801958383679, +8801958383680, and +8801937400591.
The unrest in Bangladesh has intensified following the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on August 5. The protests, initially sparked by student demands for an end to the quota system for government jobs, have broadened into anti-government demonstrations. In a significant move, Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin has announced the dissolution of the parliament to pave the way for an interim administration.
Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus has been appointed to head the interim government, according to the Dhaka Tribune. This development has led to Sheikh Hasina’s arrival in India on Monday evening, though her plans for her stay are yet to be clarified.
Amidst the political instability, Air India operated a special charter flight to evacuate 199 passengers, including six infants, from Dhaka to Delhi early on August 7. The flight was arranged at short notice despite challenges at Dhaka Airport, reflecting the urgency of the situation.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has provided updates on the situation, noting that there are approximately 19,000 Indian nationals in Bangladesh, with about 9,000 of them being students. He assured that the Indian government is in continuous contact with the Indian community through its diplomatic missions. Most of the students had returned to India in July, according to Jaishankar.
The Indian government is closely monitoring the situation, particularly concerning the safety and security of minorities in Bangladesh. Jaishankar has highlighted the strong ties between India and Bangladesh and reaffirmed that India’s diplomatic presence includes Assistant High Commissions in Chittagong, Rajshahi, Khulna, and Sylhet, in addition to the main High Commission in Dhaka.
