India’s Ministry of External Affairs has issued a travel advisory urging Indian citizens to avoid travel to Bangladesh following a recent escalation in violence that has resulted in over 90 fatalities. The advisory comes in response to violent clashes between police and protesters demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The unrest, which erupted in Dhaka and other major cities across Bangladesh, was triggered by a non-cooperation movement initiated by the Anti-Discrimination Students Movement. Reports indicate that at least 97 people, including 14 police officers, have been killed and hundreds more injured, according to Prothom Alo newspaper.
In light of these developments, the Ministry’s advisory strongly recommends that Indian nationals refrain from traveling to Bangladesh until further notice. Indian citizens currently residing in Bangladesh are advised to exercise extreme caution, limit their movements, and maintain regular contact with the High Commission of India in Dhaka. Emergency contact numbers for the High Commission are +8801958383679, +8801958383680, and +8801937400591. At the onset of the protests, there were approximately 15,000 Indian nationals in Bangladesh, including 8,500 students. Many students have since returned via land borders or flights, with Indian authorities facilitating the repatriation of hundreds of students from Nepal and Bhutan.
The recent unrest follows a previous wave of violent protests last month, which resulted in over 200 deaths related to a contentious government job quota system. Despite the Supreme Court’s ruling to abolish the quota, protests have continued, with demonstrators now calling for the resignation of Hasina. Her government, which secured a fourth consecutive term in the January general election boycotted by the main opposition party, has implemented an indefinite nationwide curfew starting from 6 pm on Sunday, declaring a 3-day general holiday. In response to the escalating violence and protests, the Bangladesh government has imposed a high-speed internet blackout, restricting access to social media and messaging platforms. Telecom providers have been directed to shut down 4G services and maintain only 2G connectivity. The Hindustan Times YouTube channel appreciates the continued support of its viewers, who have helped it reach 7 million subscribers. For the latest updates and exclusive video news on political developments, viewers are encouraged to follow the channel.
