Bangladesh, India pledge to eliminate border killings

Bangladesh and India have agreed to take concrete measures to eliminate border killings, strengthen security, and enhance cooperation on cross-border issues, following the 55th Border Conference between Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and India's Border Security Force (BSF).

The four-day conference (February 17 to 20) in New Delhi, saw a 13-member Bangladeshi delegation, led by BGB Director General Maj Gen Mohammad Ashrafuzzaman Siddiqui, engage in discussions with the Indian delegation, headed by BSF Director General Shri Daljit Singh Chawdhary, according to a BGB media release.

During the meeting, the BGB chief expressed deep concern over the killings of Bangladeshi citizens along the border and urged BSF to take necessary measures to bring the incidents down to zero.

In addition, the BSF was requested to inform the appropriate authorities about the construction and renovation of embankments along the banks to prevent erosion of the border river and the unexpected floods caused by opening the embankments upstream in Bangladesh and releasing water without prior notice, said the release.

The BGB DG stressed the effective implementation of the 'Integrated Border Management Plan' to ensure peace, order and security along the border.

In response, BSF reiterated its commitment to a non-lethal policy while upholding human rights and pledged continued cooperation to curb border crimes, including drug trafficking and smuggling.

Key outcomes of the conference

In order to reduce the incidents of shooting/killing/injuring/beating of unarmed citizens on the border to zero, both sides agreed to intensify joint patrols in vulnerable areas, exchange intelligence promptly, undertake awareness campaigns among border communities and implement socio-economic development initiatives.

Any killings along the border will be thoroughly investigated, with necessary measures taken.

Any construction within 150 yards of the border, including fences and bunkers, will require prior inspection and approval by a joint verification team. Development projects stalled within this zone will be resolved through mutual consultation.

Both forces committed to strengthening cooperation in preventing smuggling, particularly of drugs such as Phensedyl, Yaba and cannabis, as well as human trafficking, gold smuggling, illegal weapons trade, and circulation of counterfeit currency. Real-time intelligence sharing was also agreed upon.

Both sides will take measures to prevent misunderstandings and tensions caused by illegal border crossings, increasing surveillance and awareness campaigns to prevent unauthorised movements.

Stronger efforts will be made to dismantle human trafficking networks, with a focus on the rescue and rehabilitation of victims in accordance with national laws.

Besides, establishment of suitable water treatment plants to remove waste water from 4 border canals flowing from Agartala to Akhaura; opening of Rahimpur canal mouth with Kushiyara River in Zakiganj; fruitful discussions were held on the possible location of regional separatist armed terrorist groups and their activities, the release added.

Both sides praised the implementation of the Coordinated Border Management Plan (CBMP) and pledged to continue collaborative efforts.

Plans were also made to conduct joint sports events and a 'Joint Retreat Ceremony' to foster mutual trust and cooperation.