Quota violence: India issues advisory to its nationals in Bangladesh as clashes leave 6 dead
PTC Web Desk: India issued an advisory on Thursday urging its nationals and students in Bangladesh to restrict their movement outside their residences due to ongoing quota violence across the country. The advisory includes 24-hour emergency contact numbers.
"In light of the current situation in Bangladesh, Indian community members and students are advised to avoid travel and minimise movement outside their living premises," the advisory stated. "In case of any urgency or need for assistance, please contact the High Commission and our Assistant High Commissions."
This advisory follows an announcement by student protesters demanding reforms in the government job quota system. The protesters declared a nationwide shutdown on Thursday in response to actions taken by security forces. Clashes during the protests have resulted in at least six deaths, including four students.
Asif Mahmud, a key coordinator of the movement, announced on Facebook that all establishments, except hospitals and emergency services, would remain closed, with only ambulance services permitted to operate. The movement calls on students from all educational institutions to participate and urges guardians to support their cause, according to a newspaper report.
In response to the escalating violence, the authorities have deployed paramilitary Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) troops in four major cities and dispatched hundreds of policemen in riot gear to public university campuses across the country.
- With inputs from agencies
