The ongoing tensions between Bangladesh and India, highlighted by a visa cap and a boycott of Bangladeshi tourists, have significantly affected India’s tourism industry, including a decline in Kolkata’s sector. In response, Kolkata’s business community has issued a new announcement. Unlike Tripura, businesses in Kolkata have announced their decision not to boycott Bangladeshi visitors but to ensure their safety. Members of the hotel, money exchange, and transport sectors stated, “We will not boycott Bangladeshis; we will provide them with maximum security. “This announcement was made on Saturday (December 7) during a press conference held by the New Market Marquis Street-Free School Street Welfare Society, the New Market Trade Association, and the Hotel Owners Association, clearly outlining their position. Their message to Bangladeshi tourists is: “We will not boycott Bangladeshis. They can visit here without worry. We will provide them with as much security as possible.”
Mantos Saha, President of the Marquis Street-Free School Street Welfare Society, noted a sharp decline in Bangladeshi tourists, who once significantly contributed to the local economy. “The number of Bangladeshi visitors has dropped to just 5% of the usual 5,000–7,000 daily arrivals, causing financial losses for both sides. However, my country comes first, and I urge both governments to find a solution,” he said.
Joint Secretary Mantos Sarkar emphasized that New Market heavily depends on Bangladeshi tourists. “We see them as family, not foreign visitors. Their absence has hit local businesses hard. We hope the situation normalizes soon.” He added, “Rumors are harming relations, but we urge Bangladeshi tourists to visit without hesitation. Strong ties exist between our nations, and both sides must work together to resolve this issue.” Mantos Sarkar, owner of MRL Hotel in Kolkata, shared that 80% of his guests are Bangladeshi, but the number has significantly decreased, with Indian tourists now making up 60%. He assured Bangladeshi tourists, saying, “They are always welcome, and we will continue providing them with the best service.” Muhammad Ali Hussein Sheikh, a businessman in exports, foreign exchange, and transport, expressed his concerns about his business struggling since August 5. He called for more flexible visa processes, including multiple-entry and employment visas for up to three months, to meet the demand from Bangladesh. He emphasized that there are no issues with traveling to Kolkata. Sanjay Majumdar, owner of Green Line Transport, highlighted the impact of the absence of Bangladeshi tourists on New Market’s economy, which depends on their visits. He warned that if this situation continues, it could hurt local livelihoods. Avni Ghosh, owner of Souhardya Bus Service, blamed certain social media reports for worsening the situation and hoped that the upcoming visit of India’s Foreign Secretary to Bangladesh would help ease tensions and lead to a more flexible visa process.
Source: Dhaka Post
