Protests Erupt in Kyrgyzstan’s Capital after Clash between Local and International Students
In Kyrgyzstan’s capital city, Bishkek, a clash between locals and international students at a hostel on May 13th has sparked protests and unrest. The incident involved a fight between Kyrgyz and Egyptian students, which was captured on video and went viral online, inciting a response from Kyrgyz nationals.
Demonstrations erupted, with protesters obstructing traffic and vandalizing buildings, prompting intervention from security forces who made arrests. The situation has escalated as mobs targeted hostels where international students from India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh reside.
Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have expressed concern for the well-being of their students. The Indian government is monitoring the situation and advising students to stay indoors and contact the embassy in case of any issues. Pakistan has also instructed their ambassador in Kyrgyzstan to provide necessary assistance.
As of April 2023, approximately 9,500 students from the Indian subcontinent were pursuing medical studies in Kyrgyzstan, making it a popular destination for education. However, the recent violence has raised concerns for their safety and security. The Indian and Pakistani embassies have been in contact with students and have urged them to prioritize their well-being.
The Pakistani consulate in Kyrgyzstan has acknowledged attacks on Pakistani students’ hostels and confirmed reports of minor injuries. However, they have refuted social media claims of fatalities or sexual assault. The situation remains fluid, and further updates are expected as authorities work to de-escalate the situation.
