BSF ‘crosses into’ Kurigram border, beats 5 farmers

Five farmers have reportedly been beaten and injured by members of India’s Border Security Force, or BSF, after they entered Bangladesh through the border in Kurigram’s Phulbari Upazila.

Upon hearing of the altercation, residents of the border region armed themselves with sticks and gathered at the zero line.

The situation was eventually diffused defused when the Border Guard Bangladesh, or BGB, personnel intervened, calming the crowd and restoring order.

The incident occurred near Balatari International Border Pillar No 930 (HS) in Nawdanga Union of the Upazila on Friday afternoon, according to Havildar Delbar Hossain of the BGB’s Gorakhmandal Border Outpost, or BOP.

The five individuals who sustained injuries have been identified as Shamsul Haque, 60, Jabed Ali, 55, Tajul Islam, 40, Kashem Ali, 50, and Ripon, 35, identified by a single name. All of them are residents of Krishnananda Bakshi village.

Witnesses said members of India's Narayanganj-138 Battalion of the BSF crossed the barbed-wire fence and entered approximately 500 yards into Bangladesh's zero line.

The confrontation began when Bangladeshi farmers working along the border protested the incursion, leading to a heated argument between the two sides.

The situation escalated when BSF personnel reportedly began striking the farmers with sticks, leaving five injured.

Upon learning of the incident, local villagers pursued the BSF members, who subsequently retreated across the border.

The clash has heightened tensions in the area.

Local resident Rubel Islam recounted the incident, saying: "When BSF members entered Bangladesh in the afternoon, they were confronted. They became angry and beat us up."

Delbar confirmed that the situation along the border has since stabilised. He added that the incident has been reported to higher authorities for further review.

Lt Col Shakil Alam, commander of the BGB's Lalmonirhat-15 Battalion, asserted: "It is not a simple matter for the BSF to cross into Bangladesh and assault individuals. However, thorough inquiries are being conducted regarding the incident."