Indian Border Security Force (BSF) has sought for leniency after a clash between Indian and Bangladeshi nationals at Kiranganj border under Shibganj upazila in Chapainawabganj district on Saturday.
The clash ensued when a group of 100 Indian nationals crossed into Bangladeshi territory and cut down mango trees.
On information, Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) with local support, thwarted the attempt, resulting in injuries of five individuals from the both sides.
The altercation occurred around 12:30 PM in Binodpur union, with two confirmed Bangladeshi victims: Asmaul, 18, son of Jhaiton Ali, and Babu, 26, both from the same union.
Follwoing the incident, a flag meeting was held between BGB and BSF at 4 PM, during which BSF requested that the matter be viewed with leniency.
According to local witnesses, more than 100 Indian nationals, accompanied by BSF personnel, crossed into Bangladeshi territory around noon and began cutting down 1215 mango trees. In response, BGB patrol teams used loudspeakers to call for local support. This resulted in a standoff between the two sides.
During the clash, BSF reportedly used four sound grenades, tear gas shells, and threw stones, while Bangladeshi locals armed with sticks and tools countered the aggression. Eventually, the Indian side abandoned the cut trees and retreated.
Lt. Col. Golam Kibria, Commander of BGB 59 Battalion, confirmed the incident, stating, "The altercation occurred over tree cutting on Bangladeshi territory, leading to a chase and counter-chase. BGB's prompt action forced the Indian side to retreat. The situation was addressed through a flag meeting, during which BSF assured cooperation and requested that the matter be viewed leniently."
