Shillong, July 20, 2024 — Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma has confirmed that 36 students from the state are still stranded in Bangladesh due to ongoing violent protests. The unrest, which has led to significant instability, has affected students studying at Eastern Medical College in Bangladesh.
In a statement, CM Sangma revealed that efforts to evacuate students have been partially successful, with 405 Indian students, including 80 from Meghalaya, having been safely evacuated through the Dawki Integrated Check Post in West Jaintia Hills District. This evacuation effort also included students from Bhutan and Nepal, as well as some tourists.
“The situation in Bangladesh is unfortunate, and we acted swiftly upon receiving reports,” CM Sangma said. “While 405 Indian students have been brought back safely, 36 students from Meghalaya remain in Bangladesh. We are actively coordinating with the Indian Embassy in Dhaka to facilitate their safe return.”
The Chief Minister emphasized ongoing communication with both Bangladeshi authorities and the Indian Embassy to monitor the situation closely. He noted that while the college where the students are based reports stability, the route to the border remains risky. “We are taking every precaution to ensure their safety. We hope to reassess the situation within the next 24 hours,” he added.
Plans are underway to route most returnees through Tripura, with coordination ongoing with Tripura officials and the Indian High Commission in Bangladesh. Additionally, CM Sangma announced plans to establish an online portal to gather contact information of Meghalaya students studying abroad. “This portal will enhance our ability to communicate and coordinate during emergencies,” he said, noting that the proposal will be presented at the next cabinet meeting for approval.