The tragic image of Felani Khatun's body hanging on the barbed wire at the Indian border is a haunting memory for many. This scene, which emerged in 2011, captured the grim reality of Bangladesh-India border relations and has since been a subject of extensive media coverage, both domestic and international. Felani's death, along with other similar incidents, underscores the perilous state of coexistence between these neighboring countries, which have been marred by violence and diplomatic strife.
Felani Khatun's tragic death is not an isolated case. The border killings have continued, and the recent killing of Swarna Das, a 14-year-old Bangladeshi girl, highlights the ongoing brutality at the border. These incidents are stark violations of international law and have led to questions about the nature of the relationship between Bangladesh and India. Despite their purported friendship and extensive border-sharing, the frequency of such violent encounters raises concerns about the future of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
India and Bangladesh share a significant border stretching approximately 4,100 km, making it one of the longest international borders in the world. The two nations face a myriad of issues along this border, including disputes over river management and various forms of illegal cross-border activities such as smuggling and infiltration. India's stringent measures to curb these issues have led to increased tensions and frequent confrontations between the border forces of both countries.
The central government in India has issued directives aimed at preventing smuggling and illegal crossings. However, the aggressive enforcement of these directives has led to tragic consequences. The question that arises is why such brutal enforcement continues despite the close and historically significant relationship between the two countries. The failure to resolve these issues diplomatically and the continued incidents of border violence pose a significant threat to the relationship between India and Bangladesh.
The most recent incident occurred on the night of September 1, 2024, when Swarna Das was shot dead by the Indian Border Security Force (BSF) while attempting to cross the Lalarchak border in Moulvibazar with her mother to visit her brother in Tripura, India. Swarna, a student from Kalnigarh village, was a promising young girl known for her academic and extracurricular achievements. The shocking news of her death has left many in grief and has reignited the debate about the Indian border forces' conduct.
The death of Swarna Das mirrors the earlier tragedy of Felani Khatun, who was killed on January 7, 2011. Felani was shot while returning to Bangladesh with her father through the Anantapur border. Her lifeless body, suspended on the barbed wire, became a symbol of the brutality faced by border residents. Despite the international outcry and media attention, the BSF personnel responsible for Felani's death were acquitted, and justice remains elusive for her family. This ongoing pattern of violence and impunity illustrates the systemic issues within the BSF and the broader diplomatic relationship between the two nations.
The Indian government's response to these killings has been dismissive. Indian officials have often justified the use of force by claiming self-defense or labeling the victims as criminals, a stance that disregards the established international and bilateral protocols governing border management. The BSF's actions are in stark violation of the Joint India-Bangladesh Guidelines for Border Authorities of the Two Countries (1975) and the India-Bangladesh Coordinated Border Management Plan (2011), which outline procedures for handling border incidents, including the prohibition of unnecessary use of firearms.
In recent years, the frequency of border killings has escalated. According to reports by human rights organizations, 31 people were killed by BSF firing or torture on the Bangladeshi border in 2023 alone. This figure is a stark increase from previous years, highlighting a disturbing trend of increasing violence. The Indian BSF's justification for these killings, often framed as self-defense or targeted at smugglers, is increasingly questioned by human rights advocates and international observers.
The case of Rabiul Islam, a Bangladeshi youth killed by BSF on January 28, 2024, further exemplifies the indiscriminate nature of these border shootings. Rabiul was carrying a heavy bag of sugar when he was shot, a clear indication that he posed no real threat to the armed BSF personnel. The lack of accountability for such actions and the frequent dismissals of these incidents by Indian authorities contribute to the growing frustration and anger in Bangladesh.
The lack of effective response from the Bangladeshi government to these border killings has also been a point of contention. The previous administration's silence in the face of these repeated violations has been criticized, and there is a pressing need for the current interim government to address this issue with the seriousness it demands. Strengthening diplomatic efforts and ensuring the protection of Bangladeshi citizens at the border should be a priority for the Bangladeshi authorities.
The ongoing border violence reflects a deeper issue in the bilateral relationship between India and Bangladesh. Despite claims of friendship and cooperation, the aggressive behavior of the Indian BSF suggests a troubling disregard for the principles of international law and mutual respect. This situation calls for urgent diplomatic intervention and a reevaluation of the mechanisms in place for border management.
As India and Bangladesh continue to navigate their complex relationship, it is imperative for both countries to address these issues with transparency and accountability. The repeated killings of innocent people on the border, such as those of Felani Khatun and Swarna Das, underscore the urgent need for a reassessment of border policies and practices. The ultimate goal should be to ensure a peaceful and respectful coexistence between these neighboring nations, where the lives and dignity of their citizens are safeguarded.
The time has come for India to reflect on its border management practices and for Bangladesh to assert its right to protect its citizens. Only through genuine dialogue and adherence to international norms can the two countries hope to resolve these persistent issues and build a relationship based on mutual respect and trust. The end of such reckless behavior and the prevention of future tragedies must be a shared goal for both nations, ensuring that no more lives are lost to senseless violence.
