In a significant development, at least 202 Indian nationals, predominantly students, have successfully crossed into Bhaart through the Dawki integrated check post in Meghalaya. They had been stranded in Bangladesh due to widespread protests against job quotas in the neighbouring country.
According to a Meghalaya Home Department official, by Thursday evening at 6:45 pm, the safe return of these individuals was confirmed. The official, who requested anonymity, assured that “all possible measures have been taken for the safety of the students,” and that the situation is being closely monitored.
Out of the 202 individuals, 198 are students, with 67 hailing from Meghalaya. Among the rest, 101 students are from Nepal, seven from Bhutan, and the remaining 23 are from various other Indian States, including four tourists. The State Government is coordinating with the Bangladesh High Commission and the Land Port Authority to ensure the continued safety of the returnees.
A dedicated helpline (1800 345 3644) has been established, with Additional Police Superintendent Hiwot Rymbai (+91 96157 16153) and Land Port Executive Thomas (+91 84150 60802) appointed as nodal officers to assist in the evacuation process.
The situation in Bangladesh has been dire, with mobile internet services cut in several regions amid escalating violence and protests. On Thursday alone, the violence resulted in the deaths of 13 people, adding to a week’s toll of at least 19 fatalities. Clashes between students and police in Dhaka have intensified, leading to widespread disruptions.
Andrew Sholomar, Organising Secretary of the Bangladesh Indigenous People’s Forum (BIPF), described the situation as severe. “Today, a nationwide shutdown was declared, forcing students out of examination halls while leaving them stranded due to a lack of available transport,” he reported from Dhaka. The general advice is to remain indoors for safety as the unrest continues.
Many of the stranded students from Meghalaya were enrolled in medical, engineering, and other professional courses in Bangladesh, highlighting the significant impact of the ongoing unrest on their education and personal safety.
