Business owners in Kolkata on Saturday pledged to ensure the safety of Bangladeshi tourists.
This announcement was made during a press conference held by the Marquis Street, Free School Street Welfare Society, New Market Trade Association, and Hotel Owners Association in Kolkata.
They said: “We will not boycott Bangladeshis. We will provide them with as much security as possible so they can visit here without concern.”
Speaking at the press conference, Montosh Saha, president of the Marquis Street, Free School Street Welfare Society, mentioned that the influx of Bangladeshi tourists, which was a common sight a few years ago, has significantly decreased, leading to economic losses for both parties.
He added: “But my country comes first. I urge the governments of both countries to sit together and find an amicable solution.”
Highlighting the seasonal nature of tourism, Saha said: “The season starts in December, and five to seven thousand Bangladeshis used to visit Kolkata daily. However, the current situation has reduced that number to only 5%.”
Montosh Sarkar, Joint Secretary of the Marquis Street, Free School Street Welfare Society, said: “Our New Market area heavily relies on Bangladeshi visitors. The businesses here, including money exchange services, hotels, and tourism-related ventures, depend on them. Their absence has had a significant impact, although we don’t see them as foreign tourists.”
He added: “They are like members of our family. However, the recent decline in Bangladeshi tourists is concerning. We hope the situation will normalize soon. Some individuals are spreading rumors to damage relationships. We urge Bangladeshi tourists to disregard such rumors and continue visiting Kolkata.”
