Friday 06 / September / 2024
MUSCAT: Bangladeshi expatriates in Oman are increasingly anxious about the deteriorating situation in their home country, where widespread protests have led to over 100 deaths. The unrest has caused severe disruptions in communication, with the internet down and telephone services unreliable, making it difficult for expats in Oman to stay informed about the welfare of their loved ones back home.
The protests in Bangladesh, which began as a student-led movement demanding the government scrap its preferential hiring rules for civil service jobs, have escalated into the most severe unrest the country has seen in years.
Bangladesh Social Club chief appeals for peace
In the midst of this turmoil, Sirajul Haque, Chairman of the Bangladesh Social Club Oman, has urged Bangladeshi expatriates in Oman not to hold any demonstrations or gatherings without official permission.
“It is strictly prohibited to hold any demonstration or gathering anywhere in Oman, even if it is peaceful, without a permit from the competent authority,” Haque told the Times of Oman on Sunday.
The Bangladesh Social Club has taken proactive steps to ensure that all Bangladeshi expats are aware of Omani laws regarding public gatherings and Haque appealed for calm and peace in the current situation.
“We have officially informed everyone living here,” Haque emphasised. Special meetings were held at the club premises to brief members about the regulations and the importance of adhering to them.
Protests in the UAE, many Bangladeshis detained
This warning comes in the wake of the detention of several Bangladeshi expatriates in the UAE for participating in protests against their home government.
The UAE’s public prosecutor’s office stated that the individuals were arrested for “committing crimes of gathering in a public place and protesting against their home government with the intent to incite unrest.” The exact number of detainees was not disclosed.
Back in Oman, the Bangladeshi community is deeply concerned about the escalating violence and the safety of their families. “Communication lines are disrupted, and the Internet has been shut down nationwide. However, we are staying in touch with our loved ones via phone,” Haque said, highlighting the challenges faced by the expatriates.
The unofficial death toll from the protests in Bangladesh crossed 110 on Sunday afternoon, adding to the expats’ distress.
“With the Internet down, many Bangladeshi newspapers are unable to update on the situation,” Haque added.
The Bangladeshi community in Oman is closely monitoring the situation, hoping for a peaceful resolution. In the meantime, they are urged to remain calm and abide by local laws to avoid any legal repercussions.
