While many Bahraini nationals feel their country is in total turmoil and may never be the same again, the ongoing unrest has increased the uncertainties with the rumor mill working overtime.
As the exodus of the expatriates grows so have attacks on South Asian residents. Indian national Asad Ahmed said: “There have been attacks on Bangladeshis in an expat-dominated area. So far, 17 people have been injured. On Wednesday two Indians — one from Punjab and another from Kerala — were shot at. Despite these attacks, we have so far not given any security.”
Shabir Hussein, a Pakistani national, echoes his fears. He said many feel unsafe in “the current state of turmoil.” No functioning transport system and the curfew imposed on Wednesday adds to our woes.
Sujit John is a Bahrain resident completing his last year of studies in Dubai. His family and friends have left Bahrain for India. “I am still in Dubai studying, trying to avoid all this mess. But my family just left for India today because the situation is getting worse,” he said.
“Locals have been attacking Pakistanis and Bangladeshis,” he said. “It just does not stop there. I know of cases where they have been stabbed and robbed. My parents had to go to the airport through the 'safe route' recommended by the American Embassy with the help of cops.”
He added offices were open in the mornings for a few hours, whereas some major companies have wound up and shifted business to Dubai and beyond.
Dina Jazar, a Saudi student who travels to Bahrain on a daily basis from Dhahran, has stopped commuting to attend classes. “My dad said it is unsafe to go even if I had ongoing classes. I may drop out this semester.”
Haifa Mohammed, a Bahraini local, is infuriated with protesters who she believes are trying to destabilize the country.
“I lost a relative after protesters took over the government hospital and blocked ambulances. For a month we have been living in fear because of protesters and their acts. They do not want to listen to reason but insist on war,” she said.
When asked about the presence of troops from the Saudi Arabia in Bahrain, she said: “The GCC troops are here for us — the poor people who are afraid — and to protect us. For proof, six issues were raised to worldwide organizations that were supported by documents and real images. And yes, they will keep the country safe; this was the last resolution after they stopped negotiating. For a month we were waiting.” Rashood Cifero, an Indian national, said: “My sister is in Bahrain in Riffa and is troubled. Her husband works in the army hospital and hasn’t come home for three days now because of all the pressure, while all doctors are on call.
This is the prevailing mood among he expatriates, though anger is also growing among the nationals against the protests. Amine Al-Mail, along with thousands of other Bahraini citizens, has condemned the continuous violence in Bahrain through social networking websites Twitter and Facebook. She said: “I hate what is going on. I hate this division and the fact that Bahrain might never be the same again.”
