Student clash in Bangladesh: Pakistan High Commission urges avoiding protests

ISLAMABAD/DHAKA: The Pakistani High Commission in Dhaka has issued an advisory urging Pakistani students in Bangladesh to avoid participating in ongoing protests and to take all necessary precautions for their safety.

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In light of the escalating student protest movement in Bangladesh, the High Commission has specifically advised those residing on campus to remain in their hostel rooms. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar contacted Pakistani High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Ambassador Syed Ahmed Maroof, to discuss the welfare of Pakistanis in the country.

During their conversation, Ambassador Maroof briefed Deputy Prime Minister Dar on the security situation and the measures taken by the High Commission to ensure the safety and well-being of Pakistanis in Bangladesh. A dedicated helpline has been established to assist Pakistani nationals during this time.

Dar instructed the High Commissioner to prioritise the welfare of Pakistanis in Bangladesh, particularly the students on the Dhaka campus, and to maintain close communication with local authorities.

The student protests in Bangladesh have intensified, resulting in the deaths of seven students. In response, the Bangladeshi government has indefinitely closed all colleges and universities.

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The protests erupted following the government’s decision to allocate a 30 per cent quota in government jobs for the descendants of those killed in the 1971 anti-Pakistan and Bangladesh movement.

Students across Bangladesh have voiced strong opposition to the quota, arguing that it exacerbates unemployment and corruption in government jobs. They contend that reserving such a significant portion of jobs for the descendants of freedom fighters deprives millions of deserving youth of their opportunities.