Kyrgyzstan unrest: Several Indian students injured, some missing; AIDSA sends SOS to MEA

Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan: Several Indian students are reported to have suffered injuries in the unrest in Kyrgyzstan's Bishkek. Some students are also reported to be missing.

The situation has rapidly deteriorated with locals targeting foreign students in various locations, including roadsides, hostels, and university areas.

The confrontation began on the night of May 13, when clashes erupted between Egyptian students and local residents.

Violence against Indian Students

Several Indian students have been reported injured in the violent incidents. All India Dental Students’ Association (AIDSA) expressed deep concern regarding the attacks. “Reports indicate that these attacks are happening by the roadside, in hostels, and other areas where students congregate. Some students have been reported missing from the campus area,” stated AIDSA in their letter to Indian officials.

Government Response

Indian government officials and the Indian Embassy in Bishkek are actively working to ensure the safety of the affected students. AIDSA acknowledged these efforts but emphasized the need for immediate and robust intervention to prevent further harm. They highlighted the severity of the situation and the urgent need to reassure the families of the students about their safety.

AIDSA's Urgent Requests

The All India Dental Students’ Association outlined several urgent requests to address the crisis:

Enhanced Security Measures: Immediate coordination with Kyrgyz authorities to provide enhanced security for Indian students within university premises and in the city.

Search and Rescue Operations: Swift action to locate and safely return any missing students.

Clear Communication: Regular updates to the students and their families about the measures being taken and the current status of the situation.

Diplomatic Intervention: Engagement at the highest diplomatic levels to ensure the protection of the students and to address the underlying causes of these attacks.

Call for Diplomatic Action

AIDSA emphasized the need for diplomatic engagement to ensure the safety of Indian students. “We trust that under the guidance of Honorable Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Honorable Minister of Home Affairs Amit Shah, and Honorable Minister of External Affairs Dr. S. Jaishankar, effective measures will be implemented swiftly,” the association stated.

Solidarity and Urgency

The All India Dental Students’ Association expressed solidarity with the medical students in Bishkek and urged the Indian government to act decisively. “The AIDSA stands in solidarity with the medical students in Bishkek, and we urge the government to act decisively to safeguard their well-being,” they concluded.

The situation remains tense as Indian students in Bishkek await further developments and assurances of their safety.