Zambia Delegation Visits Gujarat University After Assault on Foreign Students Sparks International Outrage

Ahmedabad : Amidst escalating concerns over the safety and security of foreign students, a high-level delegation from Zambia paid a visit to Gujarat University in Ahmedabad on Tuesday. This diplomatic intervention comes in the wake of a violent attack on Afghan and other foreign students over the weekend, prompting international outcry and calls for intervention from the United Nations.

The tranquil corridors of Gujarat University were disrupted by the arrival of a high-level delegation from Zambia on Tuesday, as concerns over the recent assault on foreign students reverberated across borders. The visit, prompted by the violent attack on March 16, underscores the gravity of the situation and the international community’s united front in safeguarding the rights and well-being of students from diverse backgrounds.

The harrowing incident unfolded late at night on March 16, when a mob, purportedly clad in saffron robes, descended upon the university hostel, targeting Afghan and other foreign students. The assailants objected to the students’ offering of namaz within the hostel premises, igniting a confrontation that spiraled into violence. As stones flew and rooms were vandalized, the students found themselves at the mercy of a hostile mob, with videos of the altercation circulating widely on social media, fueling outrage and condemnation.

Upon their arrival, the Zambian delegation, comprising officials from the High Commission, including the Deputy Chief of Mission and First Secretary, alongside a student representative, met with Gujarat University Vice-Chancellor Neerja Gupta. Their primary objective was to assess the well-being of the affected students and gauge the university’s response to the crisis.

Following the meeting, Vice-Chancellor Gupta assured the delegation of the university’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all students. The Zambian representatives, expressing satisfaction with the university’s actions, lauded its efforts in addressing the concerns of the affected students.

In addition to the Zambian delegation’s visit, reports suggest that Consul General of Afghanistan, Zakia Wardak, is scheduled to visit Gujarat University on March 22 to directly address the grievances of Afghan students. This follows a virtual meeting held by representatives from affected countries with the United Nations on March 17, where the incident was reported and potential intervention sought.

The assault has cast a dark shadow over Gujarat University’s reputation as a beacon of inclusivity and international student support. With over 70 students from various countries, including 26 from Zambia alone, residing in the hostel, concerns about their safety have reached a crescendo, prompting delegations and potential UN involvement.