According to the report, at least 70 leaders, including Awami League presidium members, former parliament members and top leaders of affiliated organisations, are staying in West Bengal. Most of them are living in Kolkata and surrounding areas. In addition, about 40 police officials are also staying there, the report mentioned.

At one time, about 200 Awami League-linked individuals, including former parliament members, leaders of affiliated organisations and police and army officials, were staying in Kolkata and surrounding areas. Over time, many of them have moved to other countries.

Living with the help of relatives

Several Awami League leaders staying in India said they are now living with the help of relatives and friends. Many of them are no longer as financially well-off as before.

Some are living alone in rented houses, while several others are sharing a rented house. Many of their family members are not with them. The report said their movement has also changed because of the need to keep security and identity secret.

Some said that although they used private cars when they were in the country, they are now using taxis and public transport.

Political communication continuing in secret

Many Awami League leaders, even while staying in India, have continued political communication, they said. They are keeping in touch with leaders and activists in Bangladesh through Facebook, Messenger and WhatsApp.

They claim that besides maintaining contact with party workers, they are also continuing efforts to reorganise various committees, provide cooperation in court cases and run campaigns on social media.

However, the report cautioned that it was not possible to independently verify all information about the exact number, locations and political activities of these leaders staying in India.