The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has jailed 57 Bangladeshi citizens for agitating in the Middle Eastern country in support of anti-quota protests at home, prompting speculation about potential visa restrictions for Bangladeshi workers.
The Ministry of Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment said it would not intervene in the cases of the jailed workers, as it is a matter for the UAE. Regarding the possible visa ban, the ministry said it has not received any specific information from the Emirates.
State Minister for Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment Shofiqur Rahman Choudhury told journalists on Wednesday that the expatriates had tarnished Bangladesh's image abroad by participating in a movement prohibited by UAE law.
He said the UAE has not officially communicated any visa suspensions for Bangladeshis.
On July 20, the UAE law enforcement authorities arrested 57 Bangladeshi workers for their involvement in protests in support of the anti-quota movement across Bangladesh.
Three Bangladeshi workers have been sentenced to life in prison, 53 to 10 years, and one to 11 years, for their involvement in protests across various locations in the UAE.
"I believe the protests in Dubai, led by the ghosts of 1971 war criminals Jamaat and BNP, have stained Bangladesh's reputation," the state minister commented.
"As a result, they have received various sentences. We will not interfere in this matter, as it concerns the Gulf nation's internal affairs."
Regarding the UAE's potential visa ban, he said they have not received any written orders. They have reached out to the Bangladesh embassy in the UAE, but have not received any information.
He also mentioned contacting the UAE ambassador in Bangladesh, who provided no specific details. There is no accurate information available about the closure of the labour market.
"We will inform the media as soon as we have more information. I urge everyone to ensure the news is accurate, which will benefit our country," the state minister added.
Secretary Md Ruhul Amin of the ministry was present at the press briefing.
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