Frayed ties: Bangladesh-India border heats up
Tensions have been escalating along the Bangladesh-India border since August 5, fuelled by multiple issues including ousted Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's asylum in India, border killings, minority persecution allegations, visa restrictions, and India’s attempts to erect barbed wire fences in disputed areas.
The situation has led to heightened vigilance by border forces on both sides, with incidents of conflicting responses further straining relations. Analysts warn that the current tensions are among the highest in recent years.
Barbed wire fencing dispute
India's efforts to construct barbed wire fences along the border have sparked significant opposition from Bangladesh. The Bangladesh Border Guard (BGB) recently blocked construction activities in Chapainawabganj, Naogaon, and Lalmonirhat districts, citing violations of international law.
According to Lieutenant Colonel Golam Kibria of the 59th BGB Battalion, "If any construction is undertaken within 150 yards of the zero line, the neighbouring country must be informed as per international law. However, the Indian Border Security Force (BSF) initiated construction without notification, prompting our intervention."
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has summoned Bangladesh's Deputy High Commissioner, while Dhaka has called in the Indian High Commissioner to discuss the growing tensions.
Visa and border control
Following the ousting of Sheikh Hasina, India initially suspended visa issuance for Bangladeshis, later resuming only limited categories such as medical visas. This has added to the strain on bilateral relations.
Border killings and security measures
Killings along the border, such as the high-profile Felani case, continue to anger Bangladeshi citizens. The BGB has increased patrols and awareness programs to mitigate such incidents, but concerns remain over the BSF's actions.
Recent flashpoints
Sukhdevpur-Chauka border incident:
Tensions escalated at the Chauka border in Chapainawabganj when the BSF attempted to erect a fence within 100 yards of the zero line. A flag meeting between BGB and BSF at the battalion level temporarily halted the construction.
Colonel Mohammad Shariful Islam, BGB's Deputy Director General, stated, "India tried to build a barbed wire fence in violation of international law. Our strong objection, along with resistance from local residents, forced them to stop."
Kaliganj border clash:
Another confrontation occurred at the Kaliganj border, where local residents from both countries clashed over the BSF's attempts to gather near the border fence. Reports indicate that BSF members fired tear gas shells, and Indian civilians used explosives during the altercation.
A Director-General-level meeting between the BGB and BSF is scheduled for February 16, where key issues such as border killings and fencing disputes will be discussed.
Assistant Professor Mostaqim Bin Motahar of Jahangirnagar University noted, "India must recognize the regional discontent caused by its actions, while Bangladesh should also acknowledge the importance of maintaining strong ties with its largest neighbour. Constructive dialogue is crucial."
Political analysts emphasise the role of not just governments but also political parties in fostering mutual understanding. "India needs to see that we don’t just rely on them; they also need us," said Mostaqim Bin Motahar.
BGB's response and increased measures
The BGB has ramped up surveillance and launched initiatives to engage local border communities. "These efforts have already reduced border killings to some extent," said Colonel Shariful Islam.
As tensions persist, both nations face a critical juncture: to resolve disputes diplomatically and strengthen bilateral cooperation for the sake of regional stability.
