KOLKATA: Let’s rebuild the nation and protect the rights of all citizens: this was the predominant sentiment among the hundreds of Bangladeshis stuck in Kolkata, who made a fervent plea for peace and harmony among all sects back home.
Bangladeshi students, staying at various hotels here, especially ‘Mini Bangladesh’ Marquis Street, said people from all communities were part of the students’ movement and “fringe elements” were fomenting trouble, taking advantage of the unrest.“Bangladesh belongs to every citizen there. We can’t discriminate and attack others. I have friends from the minority community but our faiths never mattered,” said Moammad Sharfuddin Sayem, a Dhaka University student.
Hundreds, who are in the city for treatment or tourism, are glued to news, hoping for better travel situation to be able to return home at the earliest. “We appeal for peace and harmony in Bangladesh. The protesters have achieved what they had set out for. Now, they should allow the formation of the next govt,” said Ozir Rahman Pintu, a businessman.
Bangladeshi youths pointed out that the student community, which led the anti-quota movement, did not support arson, violence or targeting particular groups. “Despite being from different faiths, they were together,” said Rabbi Hossain, who was a student leader in Dhaka University.
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Air India canceled all flights from Dhaka after violent protests in Bangladesh led to ex-Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fleeing the country. The airline offers affected customers a one-time waiver on rescheduling and cancellation charges. Hasina and her sister landed at Hindon Air Base, planning to seek asylum in London, while the BSF issued a high alert along the India-Bangladesh border.
Bangladeshis in Kolkata had mixed reactions to the escape of Sheikh Hasina and the Army’s takeover in Bangladesh. Some celebrated and expressed relief at the development, hailing the martyrs killed during recent protests. Others felt anxious for their families back home, sharing their worries about the ongoing turmoil and their hope for peace.
The Indigo flight from Mumbai to Dhaka, set to depart on Tuesday, was cancelled due to the political crisis in Bangladesh. Passengers can reschedule or request a refund as per the airline’s tweet on Monday. Vistara, which also has a daily Mumbai-Dhaka route, has yet to decide on Tuesday’s flight. Travelers should confirm flight status before heading to the airport.
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