ISLAMABAD – The Foreign Office has confirmed that all Pakistani students in Bangladesh are safe and have been relocated to secure accommodations following a week of intense and deadly protests in the South Asian country.
The unrest, sparked by student-led demonstrations against the quota system for government jobs, has seen significant clashes between protesters and law enforcement. The protests, which began weeks ago, escalated dramatically this week, marking one of the most severe challenges faced by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina since her re-election in January.
Bangladesh has been rocked by violence with conflicting reports on the number of casualties. Media outlets have varied in their reports, with some stating that 17 people have died while others put the figure at 23. In response to the violence, the Bangladeshi government has imposed a nationwide curfew and deployed troops to restore order.
Foreign Office Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch assured that the Pakistani high commission in Dhaka has taken all necessary steps to ensure the safety of Pakistani students. “Our mission in Dhaka is in continuous contact with all Pakistani students. The deputy head of mission has visited Chittagong to meet the students there as well,” Baloch said.
The high commission has moved the students to safe locations, including the high commission premises, the ambassador’s residence, and other secure sites.
Protest Context and Government Response
The ongoing protests are rooted in dissatisfaction with a quota system that reserves up to 30 percent of government jobs for the descendants of veterans from the 1971 war of independence. Protesters argue that this system is discriminatory and benefits political supporters of Prime Minister Hasina, who defended the quota system as a tribute to those who fought for the country’s independence.
Hasina’s government, credited with bringing significant economic growth to Bangladesh, is currently facing rising inflation and labor unrest exacerbated by global economic challenges, including the repercussions of the Ukraine war.
The situation in Bangladesh remains volatile, and the international community is closely watching the developments. The Foreign Office has urged all Pakistani nationals in Bangladesh to stay in touch with the embassy and follow safety guidelines.
For more updates and detailed information, Pakistani nationals in Bangladesh are advised to contact the Pakistani high commission in Dhaka.
