Indian High Commission in Dhaka, including 4 more assistant High Commissions, are in touch with Indian nationals in Bangladesh who want to come back. Addressing media in New Delhi today, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that around 19,000 Indian nationals including 9,000 students are in Bangladesh at present.

He added that the government is in constant touch with the High Commission to ensure the safety of nationals. Mr Jaiswal also expressed hope for the restoration of normalcy in the region as soon as possible so that the High Commission can resume its full functions.

He reiterated that the approval for former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Haseena to visit India was given at short notice. Mr Jaiswal emphasised that the government is closely monitoring the situation, including the status of the minorities in Bangladesh. He noted that there are reports of various initiatives taken by groups and organizations to ensure the protection and well-being of minorities.