In a moving appeal at the West Bengal border, a Border Security Force (BSF) jawan has urged hundreds of anxious Bangladeshi nationals to return to their country as India maintains strict border security measures. The jawan’s plea was captured in a video by Indian Express, where he addressed the crowd waiting to enter India, emphasizing that shouting would not resolve their issues.
“Please listen to me, nothing will come out of shouting,” the BSF jawan said, as he tried to calm the large number of Bangladeshis camping along the border in Cooch Behar. The jawan explained that their situation could not be resolved immediately and stressed that discussions between Indian and Bangladeshi officials were necessary to find a solution.
“Once it happens, we will see how we can protect you,” the jawan stated, referring to ongoing discussions between senior officers from both countries. He made it clear that the current method of attempting to cross the border was not viable. The crowd responded with chants of “no” when asked if crossing the border under such circumstances was possible.
On Sunday, eleven Bangladeshi nationals were apprehended while attempting to cross through the borders of West Bengal, Tripura, and Meghalaya. The BSF has heightened vigilance along the international border following these attempts.
Assam Director General of Police G. P. Singh confirmed to news agency PTI that the central government has issued directives prohibiting illegal entry from Bangladesh. However, Indian passport holders, including students and traders, will be permitted entry if their documents are verified and found valid.
The situation at the border is complicated by incomplete infrastructure; many villages in Meghalaya, which lie along the international border, remain vigilant throughout the night. Issues related to land demarcation and the presence of habitation within 150 yards of the border pillar have prevented the construction of a complete border fence.
The influx of Bangladeshi nationals seeking refuge comes amid ongoing turmoil in Bangladesh, where recent violence has led to the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. India’s border security agencies are grappling with the challenges of managing this influx while maintaining national security and upholding diplomatic protocols.
Sources By Agencies