Tension at Indo-Bangladesh Border Amid Anti-Government Protests in Bangladesh

Hundreds of panicked Bangladeshi nationals, including many Hindus, attempted to cross into India at the Sitalkuchi border in West Bengal, but were stopped by the BSF. Anti-government protests in Bangladesh have led to severe persecution of minorities, prompting the Indian government to form a committee to monitor the situation.

Tension prevailed at the Sitalkuchi fenced land border area of Cooch Behar district in West Bengal on Friday morning as over a hundred panicked Bangladeshi nationals assembled on the other side of the fence, attempting to cross into India.

The Border Security Force (BSF) managed to foil this attempt by maintaining a strict vigil. Bangladeshi nationals were later taken away by Border Guards Bangladesh (BGB) personnel, as confirmed by the BSF.

Among the crowd were mostly Bangladeshi Hindus who had gathered about 400 meters away from the fence near Genduguri and Doikhawa villages in Lalmonirhat district, Bangladesh. Vigorous patrolling by the 157 Battalion of the BSF at Pathantuli village ensured the border remained impenetrable. Bangladeshi nationals raised slogans demanding entry into India.

A senior BSF official confirmed several Bangladeshis had assembled but none were successful in crossing into India.

Violent anti-government protests in Bangladesh have caused significant upheaval, leading to the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government and the establishment of an interim government led by Muhammad Yunus. Local media reports indicate severe persecution of minorities, resulting in multiple attempts to cross into India.

In response, Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced the formation of a high-level committee to oversee the eastern border situation, ensuring the safety of Indian nationals and minorities. Shah emphasized the need for continued communication with Bangladesh to manage the situation.

(With inputs from agencies.)