What Is Dhaka's ‘Mini Pakistan'? Home To Bangladesh's Stranded Pakistanis
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A viral video has reignited focus on the forgotten lives of Bangladesh's "Stranded Pakistanis".
Tucked away in Dhaka's Mohammadpur area is a densely packed settlement known locally as 'Mini Pakistan'. It is a reference to the Geneva Camp, home to thousands of Urdu-speaking Muslims and Muhajir or Bihari Muslim settlements.
A video of the camp shot by influencer RK Sohan went viral bringing attention to the deplorable conditions of the camp.
The camp consists of many Urdu-speaking Muslims from Bihar and other parts of India moved to East Pakistan (now Bangladesh). They are referred to as 'Stranded Pakistanis" or 'Biharis' by Bangladesh government.
A recent report by Bangladesh's Daily Star reported that the settlement now sees regular clashes between armed gangs. These gangs have reportedly stolen guns from police during the recent regime change and clashes that erupted across the country between protesters and police. The protests which led to the regime change was partly hijacked by Islamists who continue to take advantage of the fragile law and order situation of the country.
Why Is Geneva Camp Called Mini Pakistan?
During the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, most Biharis supported West Pakistan. This made them targets of hostility during and after the war.
When Bangladesh became independent, these communities were left stateless and were rejected by both Pakistan and Bangladesh.
The Geneva Camp was established by the Red Cross after the war to house these displaced people. It remains one of the most densely populated and underdeveloped urban slums in the city.
Locals and outsiders colloquially call it 'Mini Pakistan" because of the population's cultural affinity to Pakistan, especially language (Urdu), food and dress, and due to their historical loyalty to Pakistan.
What Is The Legal Status Of Its Residents?
For decades, the residents were stateless. In 2008, the Bangladesh High Court ruled that those born in the country after 1971 are Bangladeshi citizens and can vote.
Despite this, many still live in limbo as they lack proper documentation, economic opportunities and social integration.
The term 'Mini Pakistan" is sometimes used derogatorily, especially by Bangladeshi nationalists. Residents of Geneva Camp often feel marginalized and excluded, though a new generation identifies more with Bangladesh.
Pakistan has been largely reluctant to take them back, despite initial promises post-1971.
First Published:
June 03, 2025, 18:57 IST
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