Some Bangladeshis in Kolkata sway between celebrations and fear
Times of India | 6 August 2024
KOLKATA: Bangladeshis in Kolkata swayed between celebrations and apprehensions as news unfolded Monday from back home on the flight of Sheikh Hasina and an Army takeover.
Some tourists brought out a 'victory procession' on Free School Street-Marquis Street - the hub of such visitors in the heart of Kolkata. They flashed victory signs, hailed 'martyrs' killed during recent quota protests and made videos while embracing each other.
Police dispersed the crowd when it started blocking traffic. "We are relieved after hearing the news of the PM's resignation, the army chief promising an interim govt and meeting the demand of the protestors. So many people have given up their lives in these protests," said Mohammad Sharfuddin Sayem, a student from Chittagong.
For Dhaka's Mohammad Jamir Shopon, when word spread about a press conference by the Bangladesh army chief, he knew more 'good news' was coming. Parveen Munni from Chittagong managed to buy rasgullas from a sweet shop and distributed them in her hotel. "The deaths of so many young students are unacceptable and now we are free," she said.
Many others were worried. "I was forced to come to Kolkata amid all the turmoil due to the health of my elder brother. But my heart was with the protestors. The last two days have been very difficult for our countrymen. I am going to offer special prayers now," said businessman Mayaz Hossain Choudhuri.