Editorial
Killings at the border
We express serious concern at its frequent occurence
The recent killing of two cattle traders and a teenage girl in separate incidents in the border area in the past few days is most unfortunate. While border guards on both sides have the responsibility of preventing cross-border crimes such as smuggling of illegal goods and human trafficking, this trigger-happy attitude, especially on the part of the Indian Border Security Force (BSF), has often proven irresponsible and ended in tragedy. The story of 15-year-old Felani is a case in point.
From flag meetings to director general-level conferences, all have been positive. Border guards and delegations from both countries have constantly agreed to improve relations between the two forces, strengthen border patrol and maintain a normal and peaceful atmosphere on the border. However, despite steady protests on the part of the Bangladesh side and continued reassurances from its Indian counterpart and higher authorities, the reality has been quite different, with frequent killings by the BSF occurring.
Rather than hasty firing, heightened and efficient security measures should be the way to catch criminals. As most cross-border movements of a dubious nature occur at night, floodlights and other sophisticated equipment should be set up for the job. Unprovoked and indiscriminate firing is not the solution. The Bangladesh Guideline for Border Authorities 1975 stipulates the duties of the border forces as authorised to arrest criminals and hand them over to the other side; this consideration and tolerance must be reciprocated. A Joint Record of Discussions was also signed by border guards of the two countries last year to ensure the exercise of restraint by both forces, in an attempt to prevent killing of innocent civilians on the border.
The profession of friendship between the two nations and their leaders is, unfortunately, not reflected in the border patrol activities, which have been the cause of several deaths as well as a constant, palpable tension in the border areas. The decisions taken at the highest levels must permeate the ground level in order to prevent deaths on the border as well as a deterioration of the amiable relationship between the two countries. Strengthened border patrol can only be achieved with communication and cooperation from both sides. In this case, India should be taking the first step, for, while policies have been friendly enough, practices are yet to prove as friendly on the ground. Meanwhile, peace on the border remains a promise pending.
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