Security alert: Indian Embassy issues advisory amid mob violence in Bishkek

As violence against international students continues in Bishkek, the Indian Embassy in Kyrgyzstan has urged Indian students to stay indoors and contact them for assistance. They have provided a helpline number for students to contact.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has expressed his caution over the situation in Bishkek, especially in light of the violence targeting foreign students. This comes after reports of Pakistani students being harmed during attacks on their hostels.

The Indian Embassy's advisory comes after reports of mob attacks on foreign students in Kyrgyzstan's capital Bishkek, with incidents escalating on Friday. These attacks were partly triggered by the sharing of online videos depicting clashes between Kyrgyz and Egyptian medical students on 13 May.

Additionally, several hospitals affiliated with medical universities and private residences of international students in Bishkek have also been targeted, according to Pakistan Embassy reports. These attacks have affected students from India, Pakistan and Bangladesh, with minor injuries reported among Pakistani students.

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. Our 24×7 contact number is 0555710041.

— India in Kyrgyz Republic (@IndiaInKyrgyz) May 18, 2024