July 17, 2024
Islamabad – On Wednesday, Foreign Minister “Ishaq Dar” directed Pakistan’s High Commissioner in Dhaka, “Syed Maroof,” to ensure the safety of Pakistani students amid escalating protests in Bangladesh. Dar emphasized the importance of working closely with local authorities to protect the students.
The unrest in Bangladesh has led to the indefinite closure of schools nationwide after six students were killed in clashes during protests over quotas for government jobs. The violence has prompted the deployment of paramilitary forces to maintain order.
This wave of protests represents a significant challenge to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s administration, which secured a fourth consecutive term in January following an election boycotted by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). The unrest is largely attributed to stagnant private sector job growth, making government positions, which offer regular wage increases and other benefits, highly sought after.
Currently, “56% of government jobs” in Bangladesh are reserved under various quotas, including “10% for women, 10% for residents of underdeveloped districts, 5% for indigenous communities, and 1% for people with disabilities.”
Dar, who also serves as the deputy premier, contacted Maroof early in the morning to check on the welfare of Pakistani students in Bangladesh, particularly those in Dhaka. He urged Maroof to maintain close contact with local authorities to ensure the students’ safety.
High Commissioner Maroof briefed Dar on the security situation and the measures the High Commission has taken to safeguard Pakistanis in Bangladesh. He mentioned that a helpline has been activated to assist individuals in distress.
Additionally, the Pakistan High Commission has advised students in Dhaka to prioritize their safety by staying within their campus hostels and avoiding participation in the protests due to the ongoing unrest.
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