NEW DELHI: On Sunday, India advised its citizens against traveling to Bangladesh following violent clashes that resulted in over 90 deaths. The clashes erupted between police and protesters demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
The advisory from the Ministry of External Affairs also urged Indian nationals residing in Bangladesh to exercise “extreme caution” and limit their movements.
Reports indicate that the violent clashes were widespread, affecting the capital, Dhaka, and other cities across Bangladesh.
The Anti-Discrimination Students Movement initiated a non-cooperation movement on Sunday, leading to the deaths of 97 individuals, including 14 police officers, and leaving hundreds injured, according to the Prothom Alo newspaper.
“In view of ongoing developments, Indian nationals are strongly advised against travelling to Bangladesh till further notice,” stated the advisory.
“All Indian nationals presently in Bangladesh are advised to exercise extreme caution, restrict their movements, and remain in contact with the High Commission of India in Dhaka through their emergency phone numbers: +8801958383679, +8801958383680, +8801937400591,” it added.
Last month, violent protests against a government job quota resulted in over 200 deaths across Bangladesh. Although the Supreme Court overturned the quota, recent protests have reignited, with demonstrators calling for the resignation of Prime Minister Hasina.
She secured her fourth consecutive term in a general election in January, which the main opposition party, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, boycotted.
For the second time during these protests, the government has shut down high-speed internet services. Social media platforms and messaging services like Facebook and WhatsApp were rendered inaccessible.
Authorities instructed telecom providers to shut down 4G services, maintaining only 2G services.
