Delhi calls for respecting border after Dhaka condemns killing of 3 Bangladeshis in Tripura
India highlights the importance of supporting fencing efforts where needed to deter cross-border crime and smuggling.
After Dhaka raised concerns over the recent deaths of three individuals from Bangladesh who had entered a village in Tripura, northeastern India, New Delhi issued a call yesterday (17 October) to the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus to respect the international border.
The incident, which occurred on 15 October, involved three Bangladeshi citizens who allegedly attempted to steal cattle in the Indian territory of Bidyabil, reports the Indian daily Deccan Herald.
According to its report, when confronted, they reportedly attacked local villagers with sharp weapons. In the ensuing confrontation, one Indian villager lost his life due to the actions of the intruders. Other villagers later responded to protect the livestock.
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When local authorities arrived at the scene, two of the three Bangladeshis were found dead, while a third was injured, according to India's Ministry of External Affairs. The latter subsequently died in a hospital.
Indian officials later returned the bodies to their Bangladeshi counterparts, as stated by the ministry.
In response, Bangladesh condemned the killings as "unacceptable" and described them as a "heinous act," emphasising that they represent a serious violation of human rights and the rule of law.
Bangladesh's Ministry of Foreign Affairs yesterday highlighted that all persons, regardless of nationality, deserve comprehensive protection of their rights, irrespective of where they may find themselves along the border.
The interim government expressed deep concern over the incident and urged India to carry out an immediate, unbiased and thorough investigation while also striving to prevent such inhumane acts from occurring again.
New Delhi, meanwhile, said a case has been opened over the death of the Indian villager and the three Bangladeshi individuals.
The Ministry of External Affairs highlighted the importance of Bangladesh taking necessary steps to uphold the integrity of the international boundary and support fencing efforts where needed to deter cross-border crime and smuggling.
