Visa worry hits higher edu dreams of Bangla students
Times of India | 9 December 2024
123 Kolkata: Bangladeshi students pursuing education across India, especially in Kolkata, are facing uncertainty in continuing their studies due to unavailability of student visa. Those who had returned to Bangladesh with plans to pursue higher education now find themselves unable to return amid the present situation.
Russell Robin, a post-graduate in vocal music from Rabindra Bharati University, currently preparing for PhD applications at RBU and other Indian institutes, shared his concerns. Speaking to TOI from Rangpur, he said, "I have prepared for PhD but at this point of time I have no clue how to apply for it because I need to visit the institutes and sit for the exams which is impossible at this stage. I have no idea when the visa issue will be solved."
He mentioned receiving an entrance test invitation from one of the two Indian universities he applied to but couldn't attend due to visa expiration. "As students from Bangladesh, we aspire to continue our education, which has become uncertain due to diplomatic tensions between the nations. Being a student, I sincerely hope for a resolution to these difficulties, enabling individuals like us to pursue our academic goals without disruption."
Bandhan Das, who returned to Barishal after graduation, awaits a student visa for further studies. His mother also requires a medical visa for treatment in Kolkata. He told TOI that he typically took brief breaks after examinations. "I had filled up application forms for post-graduation courses but unable to take the entrance test as my visa has expired and waiting for the renewal till then," he added.
His mother, experiencing heart and liver complications, has waited five months for a medical visa to seek treatment in Kolkata. Regarding the situation in Bangladesh, he indicated that their local area remained relatively peaceful.
Shreoshi Shreya, an RBU post-graduate, wishes to continue higher studies in India but faces imminent visa expiration this month. "Right now, I am in Bangladesh but I want to continue my higher studies in India. However, I don't know whether my visa will be renewed." Another student said, "The surroundings where I grew up has completely changed in last few months. The common people of Bangladesh want peace that a section is trying to hamper constantly."
Shamim Mahmud, studying at Calcutta University for post-graduation, expressed concern: "I was supposed to return home this month but don't know how I will commute." His family stays near Chottogram.
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