Indian Students Evacuated from Kyrgyzstan Amid Safety Concerns

Recent events have prompted the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to respond to a request from the Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) for the urgent evacuation of Indian students, particularly those from Kashmir, studying in Kyrgyzstan. This request comes in the wake of violent assaults on foreign students in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan. Kashmiri students enrolled in various medical universities in Kyrgyzstan sought evacuation after a series of mob attacks led to the tragic death of four Pakistani students and left around a dozen Indians severely injured.

Thanks to the prompt action taken by Kyrgyzstani authorities in quelling the unrest following multiple mob incidents in Bishkek, all universities have resumed their normal operations. The Embassy has communicated to the JKSA that students are advised to work with their university administrations to arrange their return to India via commercial flights upon completion of their exams. Some students have already commenced their journey back to India using commercial flight services.

In the aftermath of the attacks, the student body has appealed to the Union Ministry of External Affairs to prioritize the safe repatriation of Indian students stranded in Kyrgyzstan to ensure their safety. The situation in and around Bishkek is reportedly stable, with no restrictions on movement or transportation. Indian students have access to the Manas International Airport in Bishkek, which offers air travel options to India through direct flights and connections via cities such as Almaty, Dubai, Istanbul, and Tashkent.

The evacuation of Indian students from Kyrgyzstan following the violent attacks underscores the importance of swift diplomatic responses in ensuring the well-being of students studying abroad. With the situation now stabilized and travel arrangements being made, the focus remains on the safe return of all affected students to India. It serves as a reminder of the need for international cooperation and support during times of crisis to safeguard the interests and security of students pursuing education overseas.