Yunus’ in-laws for stronger Indo-Bangla ties, easier visa process

As Bangladesh gradually stabilises following Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's resignation amid a student uprising, the country is witnessing significant changes. Nobel Peace Prize-winning economist Dr. Muhammad Yunus has stepped in as the chief adviser of the interim government, sparking a wave of optimism in Paschimpara, Burdwan, West Bengal. 

Paschimpara holds a special connection to Yunus—his wife, Afroji Begum, grew up in this small community. The residents here take immense pride in the fact that their "son-in-law" is now leading the government of a neighbouring country. 

Yunus has visited his in-laws in West Bengal multiple times, with his most notable visit occurring shortly after receiving the Nobel Prize in 2006. However, despite frequent trips to the India, he hasn’t returned to Paschimpara since then.

Sitting in his Burdwan home, Yunus' brother-in-law, Ashfaq Hossain, fondly recalls the Nobel laureate's humility. "He’s a man of the soil," Ashfaq says. "He has always maintained a close relationship with us. Whenever I visited him in Bangladesh, he insisted I stay at his house, refusing to let me book a hotel."

Ashfaq shares a charming story about a train journey with Yunus. "When Yunus was returning to Bangladesh, I bought him a first-class ticket for the trip from Burdwan to Howrah. But instead of taking first class, he chose to ride in the general compartment. Later, he called to tell me how much he enjoyed talking to people in the common room."

For Ashfaq, this anecdote captures Yunus’ ability to connect with ordinary people, a trait he believes is key to his leadership style.

Now, with Yunus at the helm, Ashfaq has clear ideas about what should be prioritised. "Peace in the country is essential," he says, emphasising the need for stability. 

He also sees an opportunity to strengthen relations with neighbouring India, particularly by simplifying the visa process. "Many people from Bangladesh come to India for treatment. It would be beneficial to introduce spot visas, especially for senior citizens," Ashfaq suggests.

However, Ashfaq also expresses his frustration with the current visa difficulties, recounting personal experiences of waiting up to 22 days for a visa to visit Bangladesh. "If something were to happen to my sister suddenly, I might not even get a chance to see her. The governments of both countries should address this issue and make the process easier."

In the midst of political change, the people of Paschimpara hold onto hope that the new leadership in Bangladesh will not only bring peace to the nation but also forge stronger, more accessible ties with India.