VSD Vidyarthi Seva Dal Urges Home Ministry to Protect Indian Students in Bishkek

Vidyarthi Seva Dal National President Mir Qurram Ali Urges Immediate Action from Ministry of Home Affairs to Protect Indian Students in Bishkek

New Delhi, May 20, 2024 — In a letter addressed to the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, Vidyarthi Seva Dal (VSD) National President Mir Qurram Ali has expressed grave concern over the recent violent incidents involving Indian students in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. The letter, sent on behalf of the VSD, highlights a serious escalation of unrest that has left several Indian students injured and others missing.

The unrest began on the night of May 13, 2024, with a confrontation between Egyptian students and local residents, which rapidly escalated and resulted in targeted attacks against foreign students, including those from India. According to reports, these attacks have occurred in various areas frequented by students, such as roadside locations and hostels.

Mir Qurram Ali commended the efforts of Indian government officials and the Indian Embassy in Bishkek for their ongoing support but emphasized that the severity of the situation necessitates immediate and robust intervention. The letter outlines four urgent requests:

Enhanced Security Measures: Immediate coordination with Kyrgyz authorities to provide enhanced security for Indian students within university premises and throughout the city.
Search and Rescue Operations: Swift action to locate and safely return any missing students.
Clear Communication: Regular updates to be provided to students and their families regarding the measures being taken and the current status of the situation.
Diplomatic Intervention: Engagement at the highest diplomatic levels to ensure the protection of Indian students and address the underlying causes of these attacks.

The VSD expressed confidence that under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Affairs Minister Amit Shah, and External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, effective measures will be swiftly implemented to ensure the safety and well-being of the affected students.

"The Vidyarthi Seva Dal stands in solidarity with the medical students in Bishkek," Mir Qurram Ali stated. "We urge the government to act decisively to safeguard their well-being."

The VSD's letter underscores the urgent need for action to reassure the students and their families and to prevent further harm in this volatile situation.