In Bangladesh, people in former Indian enclaves are in a festive mood. Having acquired Bangladeshi citizenship after 68 years of statelessness, they are hopeful and excited about their prospects as citizens. As many as 111 Indian enclaves were transferred to Bangladesh, and 51 Bangladesh enclaves to India Friday midnight in a historic moment, bringing into force the historic 1974 Mujib-Indira Land Boundary Agreement. Bangladesh's President Abdul Hamid and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina have greeted Bangladesh's newest citizens. President Abdul Hamid said the land swap after 68 years of complicated land boundary problem is a historic development. <br/><br/>Prime Minister Hasina has said that the government will make every effort to rehabilitate the new citizens. Over 50,000 residents of 162 enclaves were given the chance to choose their citizenship during a 10-day joint survey held during 6th-16th July. Both governments have assured safe and secure passage to those opting to relocate till Nov. 30 this year.

162 enclaves of India and Bangladesh were integrated with the main land with the execution of Land Border Agreement between the two countries at midnight Friday night. According to the agreement, 51 Bengladeshi enclaves situated at Indian soil in Coochbehar District of West Bengal amalgamated with India, while 111 Indian enclaves in Bangladeshi territory integrated with that country when the clock struck 12 Friday night.<br/><br/>National Flags were hoisted in all the enclaves in both sides of the border at midnight Friday night. Residents of these enclaves will get citizenship according to their choice. AIR Correspondent covering the event reports from Masaldanga chitmahal that dreams of thousands of enclave dwellers came into reality after 68 years of struggle.