Tensions Rise Between India and Bangladesh Over Border Fencing and Fatal Shooting Incident

New Delhi & Dhaka: India has summoned Bangladesh’s Deputy High Commissioner, Nural Islam, following escalating tensions over a border fencing project. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) summoned Islam after Bangladesh lodged strong objections regarding India's fencing initiative in its territory, calling it an "unauthorized attempt" that undermines bilateral cooperation. Bangladesh claims the project destabilizes relations, especially after India's Border Security Force (BSF) commenced the construction of barbed wire fencing to curb illegal migration. Notably, nearly 800 km of the 4,096 km shared border lacks fencing.

This diplomatic standoff deepened after Bangladesh raised the issue of a Bangladeshi national, Saidul Islam, being shot by the BSF near the Sunamganj border. Islam was allegedly transporting betel nuts when he was killed by BSF personnel. Dhaka has demanded immediate investigations into these border killings.

Despite these tensions, India insists that the fencing project is crucial to combat crimes like smuggling and trafficking, highlighting cooperation between the BSF and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB). Both countries are set for further discussions in the coming month.

This growing diplomatic rift highlights the delicate balance between security measures and maintaining good relations in South Asia.