The Indian Immigration Bureau has reported an unprecedented surge of 10,000 to 12,000 Bangladeshis crossing the Benapole-Petrapole border every day from April 8 to 14, setting a remarkable record, reports the Dhaka Tribune.
In addition, thousands more traveled by air or through other land borders such as Hili, Dawki and Akhaura to major cities such as Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai or Chennai.
Traditionally, Bangladeshis visit India throughout the year for various reasons, including tourism, medical treatment or shopping.
This influx is noteworthy, especially in light of some online activists and political leaders in Bangladesh advocating for 'India Out' campaign and promoting a boycott of Indian goods.
The surge in visitors during the festive season underlines the resilience and strengthening of people-to-people links, as a senior government official in India pointed out.