Growing political unrest and violence in Bangladesh have triggered a significant return of Indian citizens from the neighboring country. Since Sunday morning, long queues have formed at key border crossings in West Bengal, with people expressing relief as they step back onto Indian soil.
Scenes of Anxiety at the Border Crossings
Fear and exhaustion were clearly visible on the faces of those waiting in line at the Petrapole border in Bongaon and the Ghojadanga border in Swarupnagar, Basirhat. Carrying bags and holding infants, many had made a hurried decision to leave Bangladesh as the security situation deteriorated rapidly. Among the returnees were also a number of Bangladeshi nationals who said they no longer felt safe in their own country and planned to stay with relatives in India until peace is restored.
Personal Stories of a Sudden Escape
Subodh Biswas, a resident of Satkhira in Bangladesh, was at the border with his wife and children. He described a sudden change in the atmosphere last Thursday. "We saw a huge mob near our home on Friday morning. The ruckus terrified us," Biswas said. The family quickly packed a few belongings and left for India, planning to stay with relatives in Taki, North 24 Parganas.
Samir Guha, an Indian who had gone to visit relatives in Gopalganj, Bangladesh, said his worried family in India compelled him to return. "The constant flow of reports of unrest made us jittery. We decided not to take any risk," Guha explained. Bangladeshi nationals like Sushmita Biswas from Comilla expressed deep concern, stating that the violence in their country was unacceptable.
Heightened Security and Local Apprehensions
Indian authorities are on high alert. The Border Security Force (BSF) and immigration officials maintained a strict vigil at both crossing points. Every individual underwent thorough document verification and mandatory health checks as a security precaution. Additional police and central forces have been deployed to prevent any untoward incidents.
Meanwhile, Indians living in the border areas of West Bengal are apprehensive about the potential social and economic repercussions if the discord in Bangladesh continues. A senior officer from the Basirhat district police assured that strict surveillance is in place and multiple police teams are patrolling to ensure a smooth and safe passage for all returnees. The administration stated it is monitoring the situation closely and is prepared to take further steps if required.
