No Service for Bangladeshis: Announces Barak Valley Hotel and Restaurant Association

The Barak Valley Hotel and Restaurant Association has announced a significant decision to refuse service to Bangladeshi citizens across the region. The decision, covering hotels and restaurants in Cachar, Sribhumi (formerly Karimganj), and Hailakandi districts, comes in response to the reported mistreatment of minorities in Bangladesh.

At a press meet held earlier yesterday, representatives of the association condemned the ongoing harassment of minority communities, particularly Hindus, by the radical elements in Bangladesh. The representatives also criticised the Bangladeshi government for failing to protect these communities.

One spokesperson stated: “We have taken this decision to stand up against what is happening in Bangladesh. The way their government has been treating minority religions, is unspeakable and unacceptable.” Another member added: “Seeing the present condition of Bangladesh, it’s only justifiable for us to refuse to serve them. They don’t deserve to be served.”

Since the departure of Sheikh Hasina from Bangladesh following the student elections, the country has witnessed a surge in harassment against minorities, particularly Hindus. Although the interim government led by Mohammad Yunus has assured action to curb these issues, reports of continued harassment and vandalism persist.

A recent incident involved the arrest of former ISKCON member Swami Chinmay Krishna Das on charges of sedition, followed by an attempt by the government to ban ISKCON. While the High Court declined the plea, the move has drawn criticism as an act of intolerance against Hindus.

The Barak Valley Hotel and Restaurant Association believes their decision is a necessary form of protest. They hope to draw attention to the plight of minorities in Bangladesh and urge stronger action against these injustices.