Amid the ongoing protests in Bangladesh, the Indian government issued a travel advisory. In the advisory, the government urged Indian citizens and students to avoid unnecessary travel and stay indoors.
The advisory stated, “In view of the ongoing situation in Bangladesh, the Indian community members and the Indian students residing in Bangladesh are advised to avoid travel and minimise their movement outside their living premises. In case of any urgency or need for assistance, please reach out to the High Commission and our Assistant High Commission at the 24-Hour Emergency numbers.”
Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina addressed the nation on Wednesday, 17 July 2024. She expressed deep regret over the casualties resulting from the student protest and said a judicial inquiry committee would be formed. Sheikh Hasina also requested protestors to keep faith in the country’s apex court. In this address, she said, “I believe our students will get justice (in the apex court). They will not be disappointed.” This was an unscheduled address.
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Sheikh Hasina appeared on a TV broadcast on the mourning day of “Ashura”, a public holiday in Bangladesh. She expressed sadness over the student protest and said, “For no justified reason some valuable lives were lost.” “I will do whatever support is necessary for the families of those who have been killed in the violence,” she added.
Amid the protest, anti-quota protesters clashed with the student wind members of the ruling Awami League Party last week. Bangladesh’s government called for a nationwide shutdown of its mobile internet network, witnessing the violent protest. Student protestors demanded to make changes in the quota system. They also announced a nationwide shutdown after security forces left around nine people dead.