Dhaka, Feb 10 (V7N) – Expatriates who participated in the July Movement lifted their blockade of the road in front of Hotel Intercontinental on Monday after staging a one-hour protest.

The demonstrators, comprising expatriates from Middle Eastern countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and others, began their blockade at 11:00 AM. The protest was called off after a five-member delegation was allowed to meet with Chief Advisor Professor Muhammad Yunus to discuss their concerns.

Protest Background and Demands

The expatriates claim they faced arrests abroad for participating in protests in support of the student-public movement that led to the fall of Sheikh Hasina. Following the change in government, they were reportedly released from foreign prisons with the help of the interim administration and have since returned to Bangladesh.

The protesters put forward five demands:

  1. Rehabilitation arrangements for affected expatriates.
  2. Lifting of the no-entry ban to Dubai to facilitate their return to work abroad.
  3. Cessation of ongoing arrests and release of prisoners detained during the protests.
  4. Trial of Awami League leaders and activists responsible for their persecution abroad.
  5. Formation of a foundation to support affected expatriates.

Government Response

The Chief Advisor's office has not yet released an official statement regarding the meeting with the expatriate delegation. However, sources indicate that the interim government is considering measures to address some of the protesters' concerns, particularly regarding employment opportunities and legal protections for expatriates.

The demonstration reflects the growing influence of overseas Bangladeshis in the country's political landscape, particularly in the aftermath of the July Uprising.

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