On Saturday, both India and Pakistan advised students in Bishkek to “remain indoors” as mob violence broke out targeting international students in the capital city of Kyrgyzstan. Although the Embassy of India in Kyrgyzstan reported that the “situation is currently calm,” Pakistan’s mission stated that a few hostels of medical universities in Bishkek, housing students from India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, had been attacked during the violence.
The Indian mission in Bishkek tweeted that they are in contact with their students, advising them to stay indoors for the moment despite the calm situation. They also urged students to reach out to the Embassy if they encounter any issues, providing their 24/7 contact number as 0555710041.
In a social media advisory, the Embassy stated that the situation escalated following the online viral spread of videos depicting a fight between Kyrgyz and Egyptian students on May 13.
Attackers targeted a few hostels of medical universities in Bishkek and private residences of international students, including Pakistanis. These hostels accommodate students from India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.
“It said there have been reports of light injuries to a number of students from Pakistan. Despite social media posts about the alleged death and rape of Pakistani students, so far, no confirmed reports have been received.”
The Embassy further stated that they have asked Pakistani students to “remain indoors until the situation normalizes,” noting that the violence seemed to target all foreign students, not just Pakistanis.
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Ambassador to Kyrgyzstan, Hasan Zaigham, stated that authorities were coordinating with local law enforcement in Bishkek to guarantee the safety of students.Set featured image
