One Decade of Free Life: An Investigation into Citizenry Common Facilities in the Ex-enclaves of Bangladesh

The integration of the formerly enclaves (Chhitmahals) into Bangladesh in 2015 marked a historic moment, granting thousands of residents access to citizenship, fundamental rights, and essential public services for the first time. This study explores the progress made over the past decade to ensure citizen-centric essential facilities such as education, healthcare,infrastructure, employment opportunities, and legal protections in these once-isolated territories. The research employs both exploratory and descriptive methods. Respondents from two selected ex-enclaves were surveyed and interviewed to understand the practical realities at the field level. The collected data offers a comprehensive picture of the availability and accessibility of the common facilities of the citizenry in the ex-enclaves of Bangladesh. Through field surveys, interviews, and data analysis, the study assesses how state policies and development initiatives have transformed the socio-economic landscape of these areas.It also examines the persistent challenges that former enclave residents face in achieving full social and financial inclusion. The findings contribute to broader discussions on post-integration governance, rural development, and the long-term impacts of statelessness.