Encouraging Dashairchhara former enclave dwellers, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has said, "You are now Bangladeshi national, you are close to Bangladesh."

The prime minister said this on Thursday morning after inaugurating power connections to 643 families among the former enclave dwellers after 68 years.

She reached the ground of a proposed Girls' High School near Kalirhat Bazar around 11am.

Sheikh Hasina also ensured them that they will improve the area.

This is the first visit of a head of government or a Prime Minister of Bangladesh in a former Indian enclave like in Dashiarchhara. It is, however, the fourth visit of Sheikh Hasina in Kurigram after 1998, 2000 and 2010.

UNB adds, "The night of sorrow is over, and you [ex-enclave dwellers] have marched towards the path enlightened with new sunlight. Your march forward will continue...May your life become beautiful and successful," she said.

PM's Power and Energy Adviser Dr Tawfique-e-Elahi Chowdhury, Opposition Chief whip Md Tajul Islam Chowdhury, PM's Principal Secretary Md Abul Kalam Azad, local AL leader Golam Rabbani Sarker also spoke on the occasion. Hoimanti Shukla described the feelings on behalf of the former enclave dwellers. Deputy Commissioner Khan Md Nurul Amin gave the address of welcome.

Deputy Speaker of the House Adv Fazle Rabbi Mia, AL joint general secretary Dr Dipu Moni was present at the dais.

The prime minister also distributed five solar home systems among the residents of Dashiarchhara.

TF