SHILLONG: A total of sixty-seven students from Meghalaya have safely returned home from Bangladesh amid wide protests in the country by students against job reservations for the family members of war veterans.
At least 25 people have been reportedly killed and scores of others injured since Tuesday during the protests between students and government forces.
The protesters are demanding an end to the quota for the family members of veterans who fought in Bangladesh’s war of independence in 1971.
As per reports, 198 students from India, including 67 from Meghalaya and 13 from other states, 101 from Nepal, seven students from Bhutan, and four tourists have entered India through the Dawki Land Port since the clashes broke out in Bangladesh.
Meghalaya shares a 443-km boundary with Bangladesh.
Notably, the Meghalaya government has been in touch with the Bangladesh High Commission, the Indian High Commission, Land Port Authority, Dawki, and Exporters Association for the safety of the students from the state.
The state government has deputed Additional Superintendent of Police, Jowai Hiwot Rymbai as a Nodal Officer at the border along with Executive Officer, Land Port Authority Dawki, Thomas as Assistant Nodal Officer.
Besides, the state government has activated a helpline number 1800-345-3644 for its citizens who may require assistance due to the prevailing situation in Bangladesh.
In the wake of the ongoing situation in the neighbouring country, the Indian community members and the Indian students residing in Bangladesh have been advised to avoid local travel and minimize their movement outside their living premises.
