Bangladesh Forces Shoot Hindu Girl Trying to Escape?
A Disturbing Incident Along the India-Bangladesh Border
The tragic killing of 14-year-old Swarna Das, a Hindu girl, near the India-Bangladesh border has raised serious concerns. Reports indicate that she was shot by Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) while attempting to cross into India with her parents.
The family had been facing difficulties in Bangladesh following the recent regime change and was desperately trying to escape to safety.
It also said that Swarna, along with her parents Rebati Das and Rani Das, attempted to cross over to Tripura thrice but failed. “Swarna and her parents had been facing problems in Bangladesh since regime change,” the report said.
When they attempted to cross the border near Pillar No. 57, taking advantage of the BSF’s absence at night, the BGB opened fire, the report further added citing officials.
India’s Border Security Force (BSF) recovered her body near the zero point of the border in Kailashahar, Tripura. After formalities were completed, her body was handed over to Bangladesh through the Manu check post.
This incident has heightened tensions between India and Bangladesh, with accusations flying between the two nations. Bangladesh tries to blame the BSF, while the BSF maintains that the BGB opened fire when the girl was attempting to cross illegally.
Rising Tensions and Untrustworthy Bangladesh Border Forces
This isn’t the first time such violence has erupted between the two nations. Tensions along the India-Bangladesh border have simmered for years, with various instances of skirmishes.
Unfortunately, this includes the 2001 Boraibari massacre, where Bangladeshi border forces, in a horrifying act, tortured and killed Indian BSF jawans. They even paraded the mutilated bodies of Indian soldiers in a manner reminiscent of ISIS terrorists.
The massacre serves as a grim reminder of how Bangladeshi forces have historically been unprofessional, brutal, and often anti-India in their actions. In the 2001 incident, the Bangladesh Rifles (now BGB) captured and murdered 16 BSF personnel.
Their bodies were desecrated and hung on poles like trophies. Such incidents only reinforce the belief that Bangladesh’s military and border forces harbor deep-seated anti-India sentiments, even though diplomatic ties between the two countries often appear amicable on the surface.
Rise in Anti-Hindu and Anti-India Sentiment
The recent regime change in Bangladesh has worsened the situation for Hindus and other minorities. Anti-Hindu and anti-India forces have become more vocal, and even within the Bangladeshi military and border forces, these sentiments are rampant.
The killing of Swarna Das is just one example of the hostile environment that Hindus face in Bangladesh. Forced conversions, kidnappings, and killings of Hindus have become alarmingly frequent.
Despite efforts by the Indian government to secure the borders, Hindus escaping persecution in Bangladesh often face dangers similar to those faced by the Das family. The question remains whether India can take stronger measures to prevent further tragedies like this one.
The Need for Vigilance Against Bangladesh and Stronger Measures
India must remain vigilant, especially when dealing with Bangladesh’s rogue border forces. Incidents like the Boraibari massacre and the recent killing of Swarna Das highlight the dangers posed by untrustworthy and aggressive Bangladeshi forces.
The BSF must continue to maintain a high level of readiness to defend the border and ensure the safety of those who seek refuge in India.
Moreover, diplomatic efforts should focus on condemning Bangladesh’s systematic persecution of Hindus.
There should be zero tolerance for such violence, especially when it involves government and military actors. A stronger diplomatic and military stance is crucial to protecting Hindus in Bangladesh and maintaining India’s territorial integrity.
A Broader Regional Crisis
Bangladesh is encircled by India on almost all sides, sharing a 4,000-kilometer border. Any internal unrest in Bangladesh directly impacts India’s security. Following the regime change, anti-India forces have gained ground, making the situation for minorities even more precarious.
The ongoing instability in Bangladesh is not just a political problem; it has morphed into a humanitarian crisis that demands urgent attention.
This incident coincides with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s recent call for heightened vigilance at India’s borders.
At the Joint Commanders’ Conference, he warned India’s armed forces to “be prepared for the unexpected” and remain alert to the growing instability in neighboring countries.
This warning seems more prescient than ever, as tensions at the India-Bangladesh border continue to rise.
Time for Action
As violence against Hindus escalates in Bangladesh, India cannot remain a passive observer. A more assertive approach is necessary, both in diplomatic forums and on the ground.
Without decisive action, the situation will only worsen, leading to more violence and instability. The protection of Hindus and other persecuted minorities should be a priority for India.
