Nepali Students Return Home from Violence-Hit Bangladesh

On Sunday, dozens of Nepali students returned to Nepal from Bangladesh, which has been experiencing significant violence. The students arrived at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, visibly emotional as they recounted their experiences.

Sadiskhya Basnet’s Experience

Sadiskhya Basnet, a medical student at Inam Medical College, had only been in Bangladesh for three months before she had to flee due to the violence and communication blackout. She explained, “All the communication means are down, so that the information cannot pass out. All the means of communication have been seized, and the situation there is critical.”

Basnet also mentioned that security personnel were searching for students who participated in protests, leading to increased fear and difficulty in contacting family members. She and her friends managed to return to Nepal by making their own arrangements.

Krishpa Rai’s Relief

Another student, Krishpa Rai, expressed her relief upon returning to Nepal. She said, “I feel safe obviously upon being back.” Rai highlighted the fear caused by the inability to contact family members due to the communication blackout.

Efforts by Nepal’s Government

Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs estimated that around 3,500 Nepali students are in Bangladesh for their studies. Approximately 800 students have already left Bangladesh for Nepal. The ministry has been coordinating with universities and authorities in Bangladesh to ensure the safe travel of Nepali students.

Nepali Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba have both made efforts to facilitate the return of students. Prime Minister Oli mentioned on social media that arrangements were made to repatriate 17 students from Enam Medical College.

Background of the Protests

The protests in Bangladesh were sparked by a new policy reserving government jobs for descendants of those who fought for independence from Pakistan. The situation escalated, leading to a nationwide curfew, communication blackout, and closure of schools and universities. The protests have resulted in over 120 deaths and significant disruptions in daily life.

Future Plans

Despite the current situation, some students, like Sushmita Kumari, expressed their intention to return to Bangladesh to complete their studies once the situation improves. Kumari stated, “I am in final years of my studies, I want to complete my studies and need my degree, I would return there if the situation goes right.”