Amid escalating violence in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, Indian and Pakistani students find themselves in peril. Both nations have issued advisories urging their students to remain indoors as foreign students become targets of mob violence. The situation, though controlled by local law enforcement, remains tense and uncertain.
What Is Happening in Bishkek?
Recent incidents in Bishkek have seen hundreds of Kyrgyz men attacking hostels that house Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi students. According to the Times of Central Asia, this unrest was triggered by an alleged fight between local and foreign individuals, resulting in widespread anger and violence. Videos circulating on social media depict mobs breaking into hostels and assaulting international students, raising significant safety concerns.
Immediate Responses from Authorities
Upon receiving information about the violence, Kyrgyzstan’s law enforcement agencies promptly detained those involved, including both foreign nationals and Kyrgyz citizens. The Indian consulate assured that the situation is under control and the safety of citizens and public order is being maintained. Indian Foreign Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar advised Indian students to stay in regular contact with the embassy for updates.
Pakistan’s Response
The Pakistani government has also reacted swiftly, setting up emergency hotlines and offering to evacuate any Pakistani citizens wishing to leave the country. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep concern over the violence, emphasizing the government’s readiness to assist its nationals. Despite alarming social media posts about deaths and rapes of Pakistani students, the Pakistani consulate has not confirmed any such reports.
Why the Tensions Escalated?
The violence appears to have been sparked by a viral video of a fight between Kyrgyz students and foreign students, including Pakistanis and Egyptians, on May 13. This incident was perceived by locals as a serious breach of hospitality extended to foreign students, leading to public outrage. Mobs took to the streets, accusing officials of being too lenient with the foreign students involved. Despite police efforts to detain those responsible, the mobs specifically targeted medical university hostels housing international students.
Why Indian Students Choose Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyzstan, along with countries like Russia, Ukraine, and Bangladesh, is a popular destination for Indian students pursuing an MBBS. Approximately 15,000 Indian students are currently studying in Kyrgyzstan. The country’s affordable and high-quality medical education, coupled with a welcoming environment, has traditionally attracted many Indian medical aspirants.
Also Read : Protests in PoK: Residents Demand Change Amidst Violence and Calls for Merger with India
Advisory for Indian Students
In light of the violence, the Indian government has reiterated that Kyrgyzstan is generally safe and friendly towards Indian nationals. The recent advisory highlights the goodwill that exists for India in Kyrgyzstan, urging students to stay safe and maintain contact with the embassy.
Conclusion
The violence in Bishkek highlights the vulnerability of foreign students in the face of local unrest. As authorities work to control the situation, Indian and Pakistani governments are taking proactive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of their citizens. It remains crucial for students to follow advisories and stay informed through official channels during these turbulent times.