In a bold move, hotel and restaurant owners in Assam's Barak Valley have announced a ban on Bangladeshi customers. This decision stems from their protest against the alleged persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh. The ban applies across the districts of Cachar, Sribhumi (Karimganj), and Hailakandi, which form the Barak Valley.
Protesting Atrocities Against Hindus
Babul Rai, president of the Barak Valley Hotel and Restaurant Association, explained the rationale behind this action. He stated, “We cannot tolerate the atrocities on Hindus. These are increasing in Bangladesh. Islamic fundamentalists have taken control there, ending democracy in Bangladesh.” Rai emphasized that the boycott would remain in effect until the situation improves, adding that neighboring Tripura has undertaken similar protests.
Geographic and Cultural Ties
The Sribhumi district shares a 129-kilometer border with Bangladesh’s Sylhet region, fostering historical and economic ties between the two regions. However, rising tensions over alleged religious persecution have led to calls for economic and social boycotts.
Parallel Protests in Barak Valley
The Barak Valley has witnessed multiple protests in recent days, including demonstrations against Bangladeshi goods. The Import-Export Association of Sribhumi had earlier decided to suspend trade relations with Bangladesh, further escalating the region's response to the issue.
Administrative Stand
Commenting on the ban, Sribhumi District Deputy Commissioner Pradeep Kumar Dwivedi clarified that the decision to ban Bangladeshi customers was a personal one by the hotel owners. “The administration works according to the diplomatic laws of the Government of India. Those who are protesting, it is their right,” he said.
This development underscores the growing tensions and the use of economic and social boycotts as a means of protest. Whether these measures will influence the situation in Bangladesh remains to be seen.
PRAKASH KUMAR PANDEY
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