Chattogram Deputy Commissioner (DC) Mohammad Zahidul Islam Miah today organised the first-ever 'Online Public Hearing for Expatriates' in the country to address expatriates' grievances and recognize their contributions.

The event took place at the Deputy Commissioner's office on April 29, with senior officials and district police present, and upazila executive officers joining online, the state media BSS reports .
 
During the hearing, 11 expatriates raised issues such as land disputes, embezzlement, family complications, extortion and false cases.

The Deputy Commissioner promptly instructed the Upazila Executive Officers to take immediate action on the complaints and police were urged to act promptly on matters requiring investigation.

Deputy Commissioner Zahidul Islam praised expatriates for their contributions, stating that their remittances cover over half of the country's import expenses. He emphasized the importance of honoring their sacrifices and contributions.
 
Noting that the hard work of around 15 million expatriate Bangladeshis worldwide sustains the country's economy, he highlighted the significant role of expatriates in Bangladesh's economy, alongside the garment and agriculture sectors.
 
During the public hearing, Rana Sushil, a Qatari expatriate from Rangunia, appealed for the recovery of embezzled funds. Responding to the issue, the Deputy Commissioner instructed the police station and upazila administration to investigate and take appropriate action.
 
Expatriates Noor Mohammad from Oman and Mohammad Anwar from Qatar raised concerns about property seizure, embezzlement, and threats. The Deputy Commissioner took these complaints seriously and directed authorities to address the issues promptly.
 
Several expatriates from Saudi Arabia, Dubai and Abu Dhabi have raised similar allegations. The Deputy Commissioner assured a prompt investigation and legal action based on these claims, emphasizing the importance of expatriates as a driving force of the country's economy. He stated that the administration is committed to protecting their property and rights.
 
DC Zahidul Islam mentioned that written complaints from expatriates have been collected in advance, and efforts are being made to contact the applicants through the ministry and embassy. The goal is not only to listen to complaints but also to provide quick solutions. Regular public hearings have been scheduled for one hour every Wednesday to increase expatriate participation, with the possibility of extending the time if needed.
 
The public hearing was attended by Deputy Director (Local Government) Golam Mainuddin Hasan, Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) Md. Sharif, Additional Deputy Commissioner (LA) Md. Kamruzzaman, Additional District Magistrate Syed Mahbubul Haque, Additional Deputy Commissioner (Education and ICT) Pathan Md. Saiduzzaman, Additional Deputy Commissioner (Revenue) Sakhawat Jamil Saikat, and Additional Superintendent of Police (Industrial Area and DB) Md. Russell.