Holding people at border zero line violates human rights: ASK
The human rights organisation says such incidents have been reported at several points along the Bangladesh border.
The Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) has expressed deep concern over the alleged attempts by Border Security Force (BSF) to push people, including women and children, into Bangladesh and force them to remain at the border's zero line for extended periods.
In a statement issued today (11 June), the human rights organisation said such incidents have been reported at several points along the Bangladesh border.
According to ASK, Indian authorities have tried to force individuals into Bangladeshi territory without completing a proper, transparent and lawful verification process regarding their identity and nationality. In many cases, women, children and other vulnerable groups have reportedly been affected.
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The rights body said even if a person is suspected of being a citizen of another country, no one should be subjected to inhuman, cruel or degrading treatment. Human dignity, security and fundamental rights, it noted, do not depend on a person's nationality, religion, language or migration status.
One of the core principles of international human rights law is that every individual is entitled to protection by virtue of their inherent human dignity, the statement added.
The organisation further said questions regarding whether an individual is a Bangladeshi citizen or a citizen of another country should be resolved through transparent, lawful and mutually recognised procedures.
The ASK called on the authorities of both Bangladesh and India to address the situation in a manner that respects human rights, the rule of law and humanitarian principles.
It urged both sides to ensure the safety, dignity and protection of all individuals at the border and refrain from any attempts to push people across the border or force them to cross against their will.
In recent weeks, Bangladesh has deployed a large number of BGB personnel across border areas in 26 districts to prevent alleged push-ins by Border Security Force (BSF), including incidents involving women and children.
Border guards are maintaining round-the-clock surveillance, while local residents are also assisting authorities in several areas.
Meanwhile, the 57th director general-level conference between the BGB and BSF began in New Delhi and continued until today (11 June).
According to the BGB, issues including illegal push-ins, killings of Bangladeshis along the border and broader border management will receive priority during the talks.
