Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan — Being stranded in a foreign country is a distressing experience, and for foreign students in Kyrgyzstan, including Pakistanis, the situation has taken a perilous turn. Reports and distress calls from Pakistani students in the capital, Bishkek, and the city of Kant indicate a troubling rise in hostilities.
Frightened students have reported that enraged mobs are breaking into their hostels, assaulting them, and stealing their belongings. Videos circulating on social media show armed crowds forcibly entering hostels, destroying property, and attacking students. The alarming situation has left many students confined to their rooms, facing a severe shortage of food and essential supplies.
The violence appears to have escalated following a clash between foreign students in Bishkek on May 13, involving Pakistani and Egyptian nationals. Although the exact cause of the confrontation remains unclear, it has reportedly resulted in injuries to at least five Pakistani students. In response to the violence, the Pakistani government has advised its students in Kyrgyzstan to stay indoors for their safety.
The government of Pakistan is being urged to take immediate and decisive action to protect its citizens abroad. Mixed messages and rumors spreading through various media outlets are exacerbating the panic and fear among the students. Therefore, a coordinated and effective response from the Pakistani embassy in Bishkek is essential.
The embassy is called upon to provide hands-on support to the affected students, ensuring they have access to necessary provisions such as food, medicine, and security. Moreover, there should be clear communication channels between the embassy and the students, offering regular updates and addressing their concerns.
The Pakistani consular staff should be directed to establish helplines and offer continuous support to the distressed students. The foreign minister of Pakistan is urged to designate personnel to monitor the situation closely and engage with Kyrgyz authorities to ensure the safety and protection of Pakistani students.
This alarming situation must not become another instance of state abandonment. The government of Pakistan needs to act swiftly and effectively to ensure the well-being and security of its young citizens caught in this turmoil.