BSF helps in safe evacuation of Indian students amid student protests in Bangladesh, BSF officers on high alert at ICP Petrapole and all LCS.
Dated July 21, 2024
In view of the ongoing student protests in Bangladesh, which are witnessing increasing violence and arson, the government has completely shut down the internet to control the situation. Amid this unrest, many Indian, Nepalese and Bhutanese students studying in various educational institutions in Bangladesh are being sent back to their country. The Border Security Force (BSF) South Bengal Frontier has set up special help desks at ICP Petrapole, LCS Gede, Ghojadanga and Mahadipur to facilitate the safe return of these students. So far, the BSF has successfully assisted in the return of 572 Indian students, 133 Nepalese students and 04 Bhutanese students.
BSF in constant touch with BGB: Shri A.K Arya, DIG
BSF South Bengal Frontier’s spokesperson Shri A.K. Arya, DIG has confirmed that the BSF is in constant touch with Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB). This coordination has ensured safe evacuation of students even during night time operations. To further enhance the efficiency of the process, the immigration desk at ICP Petrapole will now be open 24/7, ensuring uninterrupted and safe passage for all students returning home.
In response to the crisis, the BSF and BGB have maintained a strong and collaborative approach to effectively manage the evacuation. Senior BSF officers at all LCS and ICP Petrapole locations are on high alert, ensuring that each student receives the necessary help and support. The safety and well-being of the students is of utmost priority, and additional facilities have been arranged to meet their needs.
BSF sets up special assistance counters at ICPs and LCSs
Medical assistance desks have been set up to address any health concerns of the returning students and special desks to help them rectify any required documentation. These are part of the comprehensive assistance system in place.
Shri Arya, DIG emphasized that the BSF, in coordination with the BGB, is leaving no stone unturned to ensure the safe return of each student. The relentless efforts of the BSF and their high-alert status have contributed significantly to the smooth and efficient evacuation process. The dedicated and organized response of the BSF in this crisis underlines their commitment towards the safety of Indian nationals abroad. The assistance provided to the Nepalese and Bhutanese students also highlights the collaborative efforts and solidarity between the neighboring countries in times of need.
DETAILS OF STUDENTS INCOMING FROM BANGLADESH THROUGH ICP/LCS TILL 1500 Hrs.SL NO. DATE INCOMING BD IND Nepali Bhutan Others TOTAL ICP Petrapole 145 Bn 1 19/07/2024 00 20 32 00 00 52 2 20/07/2024 00 178 48 00 00 226 3 21/07/2024 00 56 00 00 00 56 LCS Ghojadanga 102 Bn 1 18/07/2024 00 01 00 00 00 01 2 19/07/2024 00 01 00 00 00 01 3 20/07/2024 00 00 00 00 00 00 4 21/07/2024 00 00 00 00 00 00 LCS Gede 32 Bn 1 18/07/2024 00 38 01 00 00 39 2 19/07/2024 00 32 20 00 00 52 3 20/07/2024 01 132 09 00 00 142 4 21/07/2024 04 107 00 00 00 111 LCS MAHADIPUR 70 Bn 1. 18/07/2024 00 01 00 00 00 01 2. 19/07/2024 00 140 00 00 00 140 3 20/07/2024 00 33 23 04 00 60 4 21/07/2024 01 162 18 00 00 181 Total 06 901 151 04 00 1062