“The situation is currently calm, but students are advised to remain indoors and contact the Embassy if any issues arise,” advised Indian authorities.

1 min read 2024-05-18, 05:10 PM IST

New Delhi: India has advised its citizens in Kyrgyzstan to stay indoors following violent attacks on foreign students. This advisory was issued after several Pakistani students sustained injuries during mob violence at their hostel.

“We are in touch with our students. The situation is presently calm, but students are advised to stay indoors for the moment and get in touch with the Embassy in case of any issue. Our 24×7 contact number is 0555710041,” the Indian Consulate said on X (formerly Twitter).

Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar has also urged students to maintain regular contact with the embassy, stating, “Monitoring the welfare of Indian students in Bishkek. The situation is reportedly calm now. Strongly advise students to stay in regular touch with the Embassy.”

Despite social media claims that three Pakistani students were killed in the attack, the authorities have not confirmed any deaths. The Pakistan Embassy indicated that tensions escalated after videos of a fight between Kyrgyz and Egyptian students on May 13 went viral on Friday.

The mob targeted hostels of medical universities in Bishkek, where students from India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh reside. Fortunately, no Indian students have been injured in the attacks.

Pakistan’s consulate in Kyrgyzstan also shared updates on X, mentioning, “So far, a few hostels of medical universities in Bishkek and private residences of international students including Pakistanis have been attacked. The hostels are inhabited by students from India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. There have been reports of light injuries to several students from Pakistan.”

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“Despite social media posts about alleged death and rape of Pakistani students, so far, we have not received any confirmed report,” the consulate added.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed his concern over the situation, stating that he has instructed Pakistan’s Ambassador to provide all necessary assistance. “Deeply concerned over the situation of Pakistani students in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. I have directed Pakistan’s Ambassador to provide all necessary help and assistance. My office is also in touch with the Embassy and constantly monitoring the situation,” he said on X.

The incident highlights underlying tensions regarding the presence of South Asian migrants in Kyrgyzstan. The country has seen a growing number of foreign students, particularly from South Asia, attending its universities, especially in the medical field.

The Indian student community in Kyrgyzstan is estimated to be around 15,000, although the exact number in Bishkek is not immediately known. This large presence underscores the importance of ensuring their safety and well-being in times of unrest.

The recent violence in Bishkek serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by international students. Many of these students travel far from their home countries for education, often relying on host countries to provide a safe environment for their studies.

The Indian Embassy’s quick response and continuous communication with students demonstrate a proactive approach to crisis management. Ensuring that students have access to a 24-hour helpline and advising them to stay indoors are crucial steps in mitigating potential risks.

Similarly, Pakistan’s swift action to aid its students and the Prime Minister’s direct involvement underscore the seriousness of the situation. The shared concern between India and Pakistan, despite their historical tensions, shows a united front in prioritizing the safety of their citizens abroad.(also read: Global Population Crisis).

As the situation develops, it is essential for the Kyrgyz authorities to address the root causes of such violence and to implement measures that protect all students, regardless of nationality. This includes fostering a more inclusive environment and addressing any xenophobic sentiments that may contribute to such incidents.

For now, students in Bishkek and other affected areas are urged to remain vigilant and to keep in close contact with their respective embassies. The importance of having a reliable support system in a foreign country cannot be overstated, especially in times of crisis.

This incident has also sparked discussions about the broader issues of safety and security for international students worldwide. Educational institutions and host countries need to work together to ensure that students are not only receiving a quality education but are also living in safe and supportive environments.(also read: Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir Signals Warning for Islamabad).

Moving forward, it will be crucial for the international community to monitor the situation in Kyrgyzstan and to provide support where needed. The welfare of students should always be a top priority, and any threats to their safety must be addressed promptly and effectively.

In summary, the advisory issued by India for its students in Kyrgyzstan to stay indoors highlights the ongoing risks faced by international students amid mob violence. Both India and Pakistan have shown a commitment to the safety of their citizens, reflecting the need for continued vigilance and support for students abroad. The situation in Bishkek serves as a reminder of the broader challenges in ensuring the safety and security of international students globally.