Farakka Barrage has turned Barind region into a 'Karbala': Adviser Farida

The Farakka Barrage has turned the country's Barind region into a "Karbala", Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhter said today (16 May), referencing the suffering caused by severe water scarcity.

"Through the Farakka Barrage, India has devastated livelihoods, rivers, canals, fisheries and biodiversity in our Barind region. We will not accept this injustice. We will fight for our rightful share of water," Farida Akhter told reporters in Rajshahi, ahead of a discussion marking the 49th anniversary of the historic Farakka Long March.

She further stated, "India has long been depriving us by stopping the natural flow of the Padma River through the Farakka Barrage. The interim government condemns this prolonged injustice."

Farida emphasised the need to renew the Farakka Agreement and said, "We will exert diplomatic pressure on India to ensure fair water distribution. If necessary, we are prepared to approach international courts."

The discussion event, organised by the Farakka Long March 49th Anniversary Celebration Committee, was held at the Rajshahi College auditorium in the afternoon.