Srinagar, Aug 06: Scores of Kashmiri students stranded in Bangladesh have expressed continued uncertainty about their future despite some improvements in the situation. The students, who are pursuing medical internships and other courses, report ongoing chaos and lack of clear guidance.
Dr. Ibtisam Hamid Lone, an intern at MAG Osmani Medical College Sylhet, told Rising Kashmir that while the exact number of stranded Kashmiri students is unknown, some interns remain at their colleges to fulfill their duties. “No specific advisory was issued for intern doctors, so we managed to get by, though it was sometimes genuinely horrific. None of us wanted an extension of our duties, so we stayed,” she said.
Dr. Ibtisam noted that although the situation might appear to be improving, it remains unpredictable. Many colleges have asked students to return next week, but the Indian embassy has advised against any movement until a stable decision is made by the government. “For those of us at Sylhet MAG Osmani Medical College and Hospital, only the Jammu and Kashmir Medical Students Association has shown concern. In most other private colleges, the Assistant Commissioners have been frequently gathering information,” she added.
She reported an incident of vandalism on their campus on Monday evening, which caused fear among the students. “The situation is now under control, and we are staying in the hostel for the time being. We have to return to the hospital on Wednesday to combat the emergency situation,” she said. Dr. Ibtisam also highlighted the increased demand for doctors in the casualty and emergency departments.
Dr. Mehraj Ud Din Khan, another intern at Ad-Din Medical College Hospital, mentioned that the resumption of internet services in the city has been a relief, allowing students to contact their worried families in Kashmir. He praised the local community for their willingness to help but noted that interaction with locals is limited due to their residence on campus. “We used to go out for daily groceries, but we can manage now as there are people on campus who help bring food and other essentials to the hostels,” he said.
The intern doctors have requested Indian Embassy officials in Bangladesh to ensure they have complete information about every student and intern, including their travel details. “Unfortunately, we have not seen the same level of concern for us as for other colleges, where the embassy regularly collects information. In case of emergencies, it is crucial that they can quickly reach out or contact college administrators for assistance,” they added.
Approximately 300 Kashmiri students are stranded in various colleges across Bangladesh and have urged the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to prioritize their evacuation. Nasir Khuehami, National Convenor of the J&K Students Association (JKSA), confirmed that many students remain in Bangladesh. “We are in contact with the authorities and are hopeful for their prompt return,” he stated. He also mentioned that while the government facilitated repatriation and issued advisories, some students chose to stay. Those wishing to return should email [email protected] for assistance with the MEA.
Recently, the MEA successfully evacuated 3,500 Kashmiri students from Bangladesh. The ministry has issued an advisory advising Indian nationals against traveling to Bangladesh until further notice.
