The expatriates have warned to stop sending remittances if their 11-point demand is not met, including bringing the body of the worker back to the country who died abroad at the state's expense.
Kamrul Alam, an expatriate living in Oman, raised these demands in a press conference at the National Press Club on Saturday.
In a written statement, he said that expatriates should be paid retirement allowance when they finally return to the country. If the expatriate comes to the country on vacation or dies due to any reason or becomes physically disabled at work, his family will have to pay compensation of Tk 10 lakh. All expatriate families should be given special smart cards to ensure all kinds of civic benefits. By using passport, visa or Akama copy, the expatriates have to give interest-free home construction, business and other loans from Prabasi Kalyan Bank as well as other banks on easy terms. If there is a case filed in the name of expatriates in the country, it should be settled within 90 to 120 days. Bangladesh Embassy will provide all kinds of assistance if there is any problem in the expatriation.
In adition, according to their demand, diplomatic activities should be created for expatriates. Expatriates coming home sick should be given advanced medical care in government hospitals. The state or government shall adopt appropriate policies to ensure social, state and economic security of expatriate families. 20,000 rupees for each empty baggage should be paid within seven days in case of any kind of baggage damaged at the airport. Harassment in immigration and international travel should be prevented and necessary reforms and effective measures should be taken to reduce complications at airports.
Bd pratidin English/Lutful Hoque
