Bangladesh turmoil: Odia youth recalls harrowing experience after returning home

Amidst escalating unrest in Bangladesh, Indian citizens residing in the neighbouring country for different purposes have begun returning home.

Odia youth Sai Durlabha Mishra, who was working in a company in Bangladesh, has managed to return home. Mishra, a 33-year-old resident of Dharakote in Ganjam has shared his harrowing experience after reaching home.

“Things that are being heard about the ongoing unrest in Bangladesh are true. The situation in Bangladesh is dire. There is violence. People are being attacked with machetes and sticks. They are being beaten and robbed indiscriminately. Shops and homes are being set on fire and destroyed. Fortunately, I managed to return home safely,” said Mishra.

“Unrest started in Bangladesh on July 17. Internet was stopped and television channels are not reporting any local news. Some employees of our company along with me locked us in a room. We were not coming outside due to fear of violence. We had stocked some food items. However, we run out of those after 15 days,” he further said.

“Indian High Commissioner issued a high alert. We were warned not to venture outside. There was huge support from the Indian High Commissioner to deal with visa issues and return to India. Many Indians have returned home safely. Others are expected to return within the next 15 days. I will keep a close watch on the situation in Bangladesh. If the situation improves there, I will consider returning to my job following a discussion with my family members,” he added.