Bangladesh fears 'push-in', 'push-back' for 340 people from India

India's Border Security Force (BSF) has reportedly pushed approximately 350 individuals into Bangladesh over the past two weeks, according to Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) sources.

This surge in cross-border movements coincides with heightened regional tensions following the Pahalgam incident in Kashmir, according to local media.

The BGB has detained 262 of these individuals, comprising 223 Bangladeshi nationals, 19 Rohingyas, and 20 whose identities remain unverified.

Additionally, the Bangladesh Coast Guard apprehended 78 individuals along the Satkhira border, including three Indian nationals by birth, bringing the total number of detainees to 340.

BGB officials have characterised these push-ins as "well-planned and despicable," asserting that the BSF is conducting them in remote, uninhabited areas to evade detection. Despite Bangladesh lodging formal protests and sending diplomatic notes to India, there has been little response from Delhi. In response, the BGB has intensified surveillance and patrols along the border to prevent further unauthorised entries.

The BGB has also indicated that, considering the circumstances, Bangladesh is contemplating reciprocal measures. These developments have raised concerns about border security and the need for effective bilateral communication to address the issue.