Chief Minister Conrad Sangma on Friday said around 405 students from India have been evacuated from Bangladesh through Dawki ICP and out of them around 80 are from Meghalaya and 131 from other states.
Also, 249 students are from Nepal and 8 from Bhutan. In addition, 4 tourists have also been evacuated in the last two days.
Talking to Mediapersons said, “There were students from Bhutan and Nepal also there beside some tourists who were struck and again crossed the border from the Dawki side.”
CM said, “So the movement is on, we have already got our nodal officers here in the state and as well as we are in touch with the Indian Embassy in Bangladesh, in Dhaka and a senior IPS officer is directly in touch with us to facilitate, any kind of movement that is required.”
Meanwhile, as per official information, a total of 127 Indian students (39 are from Meghalaya) studying in Eastern Medical College in Bangladesh are leaving their campus by bus and entering India through the Sonamura Border near Agartala.
“They are planning to camp in Agartala till Sunday, and if the situation in Bangladesh does improve, will return to their respective homes by flight,” an official source said.
It said significant steps have been taken to provide assistance and facilitate evacuations in coordination with the Bangladesh High Commission, the Indian High Commission in Dhaka and Chittagong, the Landport Authority in Dawki, and the Exporters Association.
A facilitation centre has been set up at the Dawki border, manned by a nodal officer, senior police officer, executive officer of the Landport Authority of India, and a health team including a doctor. The centre is equipped with an ambulance, medical supplies, and transportation facilities.
A helpline has been activated for parents and students to contact in case of emergencies. The Indian Embassy in Bangladesh has appointed Senior IPS Officer Abhijit Saptarshi as a nodal officer to coordinate evacuation efforts and provide security support. Contact details have been shared with students and parents.
A team of officers from Meghalaya, headed by a senior official, is monitoring the situation around the clock to ensure all possible support.
Private institutions, where Indian students are enrolled, are reportedly not involved in the protests and seem to be safe. Institutional heads have advised students to remain within their educational campuses and avoid venturing outside.
The Indian High Commission in Bangladesh has provided additional contact numbers for emergencies. The Government of Meghalaya urges all students and parents to adhere to local advisories and prioritize safety. We assure you that we are committed to your well-being and will continue to provide all possible assistance during these challenging times.