Indian High Commission Operational Amid Bangladesh's Political Turmoil

The Indian High Commission in Bangladesh remains operational amidst political unrest. Essential staff stay while non-essential personnel have returned to India. Helplines are active for Indian nationals. Amid protests and PM Sheikh Hasina's resignation, Air India evacuated 199 passengers from Dhaka. The Indian government maintains close contact with its nationals in Bangladesh.

In the wake of ongoing political turmoil in Bangladesh, the Indian High Commission has reassured that it remains operational, providing crucial helpline numbers for Indian nationals residing there. Despite a tense situation, diplomats and essential staff continue their duties in Bangladesh, while non-essential personnel have returned to India.

Sources confirm that the helpline numbers of the High Commission of India (HCI) in Dhaka are fully functional: +8801958383679, +8801958383680, and +8801937400591. The fluid political landscape saw Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resign on August 5 amid mounting student protests and anti-government demonstrations demanding reforms in the quota system for government jobs.

A special charter Air India flight evacuated 199 passengers and six infants from Dhaka early today, facing infrastructure challenges at Dhaka Airport. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar informed that about 19,000 Indian nationals reside in Bangladesh, including 9,000 students. The Indian government remains in close contact with its community there as it monitors the situation, particularly concerning minority protection. Additionally, India's diplomatic presence in Bangladesh includes Assistant High Commissions in Chittagong, Rajshahi, Khulna, and Sylhet. Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus has been appointed as the head of Bangladesh's interim government following the dissolution of parliament by President Mohammed Shahabuddin.