Bangladesh Crisis: India Brings Back Families Of Diplomats As Violence Escalates In Dhaka

Updated at : 07 Aug 2024 12:09 PM

By M.k.karikalsozhan  Blog  Reporter

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The Indian High Commission in Dhaka, along with its Assistant High Commissions in Chittagong, Rajshahi, Khulna, and Sylhet, remain operational despite the ongoing crisis in Bangladesh. On Wednesday, India voluntarily repatriated non-essential staff and families of diplomats from the Indian High Commission in Dhaka via an Air India flight. However, all diplomats continue to fulfil their duties, ensuring that the mission remains functional.

**Continuing Operations Amid Crisis**

Despite the escalating violence in Bangladesh, the Indian High Commission in Dhaka and the Assistant High Commissions in Chittagong, Rajshahi, Khulna, and Sylhet are maintaining their operations. The decision to bring back non-essential staff and families was a precautionary measure in response to the severe unrest in the country. Sources informed ABP LIVE that the primary diplomatic functions are being upheld by the remaining staff.

**Escalation of Violence in Bangladesh**

The move to evacuate non-essential staff came after the violence in Bangladesh reached alarming levels. What began as protests by students over government job quotas quickly devolved into widespread rioting and vandalism. The situation intensified dramatically in the past 48 hours following the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who fled to India. The ensuing chaos saw an upsurge in communal violence, with several Hindu temples vandalised, Hindu-owned shops attacked, and the homes of prominent Hindu figures in Bangladesh set ablaze.

**Military Intervention and Security Concerns**

With the overthrow of the Awami League government, the Bangladesh Army has taken control of the country but has struggled to contain the violence. The mobs have not spared even low-ranking officials of the Awami League government. Reports indicate that 29 bodies of Awami League leaders and their family members have been found dismembered across various cities. The dire situation highlights the challenges faced by the military in restoring order.

**Diplomatic Detentions and Expatriate Concerns**

On Tuesday, former foreign minister Hasan Mahmud, a close confidant of Sheikh Hasina, was detained at Dhaka airport by the Army while attempting to flee to India. His detention underscores the precarious position of those associated with the former government. Currently, around 19,000 Indian nationals are residing in Bangladesh, including approximately 9,000 students. The safety of these expatriates remains a significant concern for India.

**India's Response and Diplomatic Presence**

In an address to both houses of Parliament, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated that India is closely monitoring the situation, particularly the condition of the Hindu minority in Bangladesh. He noted that most Indian students had already returned to India in July following advice from the High Commission. He emphasised that, apart from the High Commission in Dhaka, the Assistant High Commissions in Chittagong, Rajshahi, Khulna, and Sylhet continue to operate. India expects the host government to provide the necessary security for these diplomatic establishments and looks forward to their normal functioning once the situation stabilises.

**All-Party Meeting and Security Measures**

Following an all-party meeting on the crisis in Bangladesh, Jaishankar expressed hope that various groups and organisations would take initiatives to ensure the protection and well-being of those affected. However, he also conveyed India's deep concern over the situation until law and order are visibly restored. Indian border guarding forces have been instructed to remain exceptionally alert in light of the complex situation unfolding in Bangladesh.

**Conclusion**

The Indian High Commission in Dhaka, along with the Assistant High Commissions in Chittagong, Rajshahi, Khulna, and Sylhet, remains functional despite the escalating violence in Bangladesh. The voluntary repatriation of non-essential staff and families was a precautionary measure, but all diplomats continue to perform their duties. As India closely monitors the situation, it remains committed to ensuring the safety of its nationals and maintaining its diplomatic presence in Bangladesh. The hope is for a swift restoration of peace and normalcy in the country, allowing for the full resumption of diplomatic activities.