Students From Pune Among Thousands Of Indian Students Stranded In Kyrgyzstan Amid Rising Violence
Pune, 22nd May 2024: Over ten thousand Indian students find themselves trapped in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, amidst escalating violence targeting foreign nationals, including hundreds from Pune, pursuing MBBS degrees at Bishkek University hostels.
The situation has forced most students into lockdown within their rooms, with the college administration opting to postpone exams in light of the unrest. Concerned parents, fearing for the safety of their children, have urged the state government to intervene.
Pune District Collector Dr Suhas Diwase has urged parents to submit written applications outlining their concerns, facilitating further action at the central government level.
Government statistics reveal that a significant majority of Indian students studying in Kyrgyzstan are enrolled in medical courses, with approximately one thousand hailing from Pune and other parts of Maharashtra.
Recounting the harrowing ordeal, a final-year MBBS student from Pune recounted the hostel’s nocturnal attack by local students, sparking widespread panic among the residents. “It’s been 24 hours since we dared to turn on the lights,” the student lamented, highlighting the dire conditions.
Dr. Sonali Raut, a Pune resident and sibling of a medical student, voiced concerns over the inflammatory messages circulating on social media, inciting violence against foreign students. “Students from India and Pakistan have borne the brunt of these attacks,” Dr. Raut stated, underscoring the urgent need for government intervention to ensure the safe passage of students, especially amidst ongoing exams.
Addressing the issue, Pune Collector Dr. Suhas Diwase urged parents to submit detailed written applications, pledging to escalate the matter to the central government. “Rescue operations and further assistance will be coordinated with the Ministry of External Affairs and relevant embassies,” Dr. Diwase assured, emphasizing the government’s commitment to safeguarding its citizens abroad.
