Ayesha Shirin Roy, a fourth-year MBBS student from Chhattisgarh, India, is stranded in Kyrgyzstan amid ongoing unrest and violence. Her aunt, Susanna Roy, expressed concern over Ayesha’s well-being, stating that they had been unable to contact her since 5 am. The aunt revealed that Ayesha had informed her of the hostel receiving information about a potential attack, prompting the dean to move all boarders to a bunker for safety.
Ayesha’s uncle also expressed worry to the media, highlighting difficulties in obtaining food for the students, who are only receiving one meal per day due to supply disruptions.
The Gujarat government has reached out to the Ministry of External Affairs to inquire about arrangements for returning students safely. Similarly, parents in Madhya Pradesh have urged the central government to ensure their children’s safe return.
Police in riot gear were reportedly deployed in parts of Kyrgyzstan’s capital as large crowds gathered in anger over an alleged fight between locals and foreigners. The Indian Embassy in Kyrgyzstan advised students in Bishkek to stay indoors following reports of fights.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar previously urged Indian students to maintain regular contact with the embassy. Two helplines are available 24/7 for students to reach out for assistance. The embassy stated that the situation in Bishkek had returned to normal, and flights to India were operational. They encouraged students to contact the embassy for any support they may need.
The number of Indian students in Kyrgyzstan is estimated to be around 15,000, with an unknown number currently residing in Bishkek.
