Situation in Kyrgyzstan Calms: Authorities Ensure Safety Amid Tensions with Foreign Students

There are an estimated 15,000 Indian students in Kyrgyzstan, with many pursuing medical degrees due to the affordability and quality of education

In the wake of recent violence involving foreign students in Kyrgyzstan, the country's authorities have assured that the situation is under control. The Kyrgyz foreign ministry issued a statement on May 18 confirming that law enforcement took "prompt measures" to detain individuals involved in the incident, both locals and foreigners, ensuring the safety of citizens and maintaining public order.

The ministry emphasized that there were no serious injuries among those involved in the altercation. Approximately 15 individuals sought medical attention, but no foreign nationals were reported injured according to the Kyrgyz Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The ministry also urged media and foreign diplomatic missions to avoid spreading unverified information, stressing the need for accurate and reliable updates from official sources.

The health ministry of Kyrgyzstan reported that four Pakistani nationals received first aid and were discharged, while one remains hospitalized with injuries. This follows a violent clash on May 13 between locals and foreign students in Bishkek, which led to police intervention on May 17 to quell the unrest.

Impact on Indian Students

There are an estimated 15,000 Indian students in Kyrgyzstan, with many pursuing medical degrees due to the affordability and quality of education offered by the country's universities. The Indian mission in Kyrgyzstan has issued advisories for students to remain indoors and maintain contact with the embassy. A recent advisory highlighted Kyrgyzstan as generally safe and friendly towards Indian nationals, but current events have prompted caution.

"We are in touch with our students. The situation is presently calm but students are advised to stay indoors for the moment and get in touch with the Embassy in case of any issue," stated the Indian embassy. The embassy also provided a 24/7 helpline for students: 0555710041.

Broader Context and Responses

The violence erupted after a video of a clash between Kyrgyz and Egyptian students went viral on May 13, leading to mob attacks on hostels housing international students, including those from India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. Local media reported large-scale protests, vandalism, and traffic blockades in Bishkek following the incident.

Pakistan's embassy in Bishkek has also issued advisories for its students to remain indoors. While there have been reports of minor injuries to Pakistani students, no deaths or rapes have been confirmed, contrary to some social media claims.

Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar advised Indian students to stay in regular touch with the embassy, reaffirming the need for vigilance during this period of unrest. The Indian embassy and Pakistan consulate are working closely with their nationals to ensure their safety and provide necessary assistance.

As of now, the situation in Bishkek has calmed, but the underlying tensions remain a concern for the international student community in Kyrgyzstan. Both Indian and Pakistani governments are monitoring the situation closely and providing support to their citizens abroad.

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