Killing of unarmed Bangladeshi nationals at border 'inhumane', 'deeply alarming': ASK
According to ASK statistics, at least 28 Bangladeshi nationals were killed along the border by BSF between January and November this year
Human rights body Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) has expressed deep concern and strong condemnation over the continued killing of unarmed Bangladeshi nationals along the border reportedly by India's Border Security Force (BSF), calling the incidents "inhumane" and "deeply alarming".
In a statement issued today (30 November), ASK said the persistent killing, despite years of bilateral discussions, high-level meetings and repeated assurances, constitute not only a violation of human rights but also undermine the historic friendship and trust between the two neighbouring countries.
"Targeting unarmed civilians with lethal gunfire can never be justified. Such incidents repeatedly call into question international human rights standards, norms of border management, and commitments made earlier by both countries," reads the statement.
Keep updated, follow The Business Standard's Google news channel
It added that both Bangladesh and India share equal responsibility to ensure the safety and security of people living in border regions, and any failure in this regard is deeply disappointing.
According to ASK statistics, at least 28 Bangladeshi nationals were killed along the border by BSF between January and November this year.
The organisation stressed the need for impartial investigations into each killing and accountability for those responsible.
ASK further urged both countries to avoid the use of lethal weapons in border management and to uphold humanitarian principles, restraint and international norms in line with their mutual commitments.
Calling on the Indian government and the people, ASK said it is time to take visible steps to end these "inhumane killings" in the interest of bilateral relations, human rights values and regional stability.
Ensuring peace and human security along the border is not only a matter of principle but also reflects mutual respect and solidarity between the peoples of the two nations, it added.
ASK further expressed hope that India will prioritise the value of human life and take active and responsible measures to end the use of lethal force along the border.
