In a recent podcast, Dr. Qamar Cheema addressed the troubling news coming from Kyrgyzstan, where it has been reported that mobs have attacked Pakistani students. This issue began around May 13th as a hostel matter, which then escalated into a violent conflict between Pakistani students and locals. Reports indicate that Egyptian female students were harassed, leading to a fight between Egyptian and Kyrgyz students. Consequently, Kyrgyz students started attacking all foreigners, making this the most significant story at present.
The Pakistani Foreign Office has summoned the Kyrgyz ambassador to Islamabad, seeking an explanation for the situation. It is well-known that the Indian government is very attentive to their students. Whenever there is any issue concerning Indian students, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Foreign Minister Dr. Jaishankar take immediate action, even sending planes if necessary. There are claims that Modi has even managed to stop the war between Russia and Ukraine for the sake of Indian students, often highlighted in advertisements.
The main point Dr. Cheema emphasized is the impression that India takes great care of its people and students, wherever they might be in trouble. Over time, India has shown that they look after their people, and even if one person is stuck, they take steps to help. For instance, recently, some Indians got caught in the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the government took action to rescue them.
In the case of Kyrgyzstan, where there was a fight between Egyptian and local Kyrgyz people, initial reports mentioned rape and other violent acts, but the real situation was unclear. However, it has been confirmed by the Kyrgyz government to the Pakistani embassy in Kyrgyzstan that there have been no deaths of Pakistani students in the mob violence.
Kyrgyzstan and other small states like Tajikistan, often referred to as the “stan” states, have many Pakistani students studying there to become doctors. There is a big dream among Pakistanis to become doctors. However, the value and worth of an MBBS degree might not be the same in the future. But the perception in Pakistan is that having a degree from abroad can improve one’s life because foreign degrees are valued there. This is true to some extent. Many students from India also go abroad for studies, either on self-funding or scholarships.
The current situation has developed in such a way that people have a great desire to go abroad. Of course, they should go and study, and many have worked hard to get there. It would be wrong to suggest that they shouldn’t go. People have legitimate reasons to be there.For example, recently, Indian students in America have been attacked because Indians are performing much better in American universities. Indian students are excelling in American universities, and it seems that in this incident, Pakistani students got caught in the middle, becoming what is known as collateral damage. If there was a fight between Kyrgyz and Egyptians and the Kyrgyz decided to attack all foreigners, Pakistani students unfortunately became victims.
There are many cases where students in hostels form groups, and those staying in hostels might know this well. Dr. Cheema said that many Indian media outlets and social media platforms claim that Pakistani students were killed there and that Pakistani students are not receiving help from the Pakistani embassy. The first thing is that help should be provided, and if it is not, it is indeed a serious issue.
Dr. Cheema also mentioned a tweet from Pakistan’s Prime Minister, saying he has asked the ambassador about the situation. He emphasized that it is not enough to call the ambassador; the Prime Minister should talk to his counterpart in that country. A high-level call would prompt an appropriate response from the top down. This is a matter for the Foreign Minister to address. While a demarche to the Kyrgyz ambassador is understandable, issuing a demarche to a larger country like America is different.
Many students are sharing screenshots on social media, expressing their plight and asking the government for help. This shows the reliance on the government in such times. Dr. Cheema believes the Prime Minister should send a plane and people from Pakistan to protect the students there. If the students want to return to Pakistan or continue studying despite harassment, they should be supported, especially the girls who need psychological support. The embassy should monitor the hostels and ensure better conditions. If necessary, they should acquire hostels exclusively for Pakistani students to ensure their safety.
Dr. Cheema highlighted that some people are questioning the government’s legitimacy, However, the government needs to show leadership. Pakistani officials should go there and take care of Pakistani students. Reports say there are thousands of students there. Although Pakistan has established a helpline and provided contact numbers, which is a good step, the government must take immediate and substantial action to protect and support its students abroad.
He mentioned that India has taken it to the next level, ensuring their people are protected and respected internationally. Despite significant incidents in America, the Indian government has shown a strong stance in protecting its students. There is often jealousy or animosity towards Indian students because of their excellent performance.
Dr. Cheema stressed that the Pakistani government must step up and take responsibility for its students abroad, providing them with the support and protection they need during such crises. Verification of claims and understanding the situation is crucial before sending people there. When people are sent, the situation becomes clearer. If no one is sent, the true situation remains unknown.
Dr. Cheema was of the view that all that needs to be done is to genuinely reach out to the students. Disturbing reports of attacks and killings are very troubling. The government must follow up with the students wherever they are, regardless of their position, and not just rely on social media or TV news. Concrete actions on the ground are necessary. Quick reactions are essential, especially when an issue becomes internationalized, making it a challenge for the government. When other countries, like India, are taking care of their students, and Pakistani leadership is only tweeting, it is not appropriate.
The embassy has had very little contact with the students, and the majority of students have not been contacted by the embassy. This is why the current situation is unclear. Dr. Cheema urged the Prime Minister to send planes, people, and a team to sit with the Kyrgyz government and discuss the situation. They should visit the areas where the students are, inspect the buildings where they are staying, and house the students in secure buildings. Engaging with Pakistani businessmen and the civil society there is essential to ensure proper measures are taken.
In summary, social media discussions alone are not enough. While there are limitations since Pakistan is a foreign country and cannot take certain actions there, the issue remains significant. It is crucial to see what further developments occur.
