KOLKATA: India and Bangladesh experienced heightened tensions this week following a confrontation between their security forces over the construction of a border fence intended to prevent cattle from straying. The incident occurred against a backdrop of strained relations following the recent political upheaval in Bangladesh.
On Thursday, India’s Border Security Force (BSF) reported that their efforts to erect the fence were obstructed by Bangladeshi border guards. The BSF’s deputy inspector general, A. K. Arya, stated that while tensions escalated, the confrontation did not result in violence.
The border dispute is compounded by the recent ousting of Bangladeshi leader Sheikh Hasina, who has since taken refuge in India. Hasina’s fall from power and subsequent exile have led to strained relations between the two countries, with many Bangladeshis criticizing India for its support of her 15-year regime.
The fence in question is part of a 2012 agreement aimed at controlling cattle movement across the border and addressing issues of cattle smuggling. While India asserts that the fence is intended to prevent cows from wandering across the frontier or being stolen, the exact purpose behind its construction remains unclear.
In addition to the fence dispute, tensions have been exacerbated by the recent arrest of five Indian boat operators by Bangladeshi border guards. The operators, employed by the BSF to prevent cattle smuggling, were detained after their boats drifted across the river border due to strong currents. Bangladesh has refused to return the operators, citing diplomatic tensions and media pressure.
The ongoing border issues are also linked to the broader political crisis in Bangladesh. India has arrested several Bangladeshis attempting to cross the border amid the political unrest, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government has expressed concern over reported attacks on Bangladesh’s Hindu minority, who are perceived as supporters of Hasina’s party.
The diplomatic strain between India and Bangladesh highlights the complex interplay of political, security, and humanitarian issues affecting the region.
