Bangladesh and India strengthen border cooperation to prevent killings and crime

Bangladesh and India have agreed to take firm action if any killings occur along their border, ensuring thorough investigations and necessary measures are implemented. 

This resolution was made at the 55th Border Conference held in New Delhi, India, from February 17 to February 20, 2025, where the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and the Border Security Force (BSF) met for a four-day summit.

The joint statement released on the night of February 21 outlined several key agreements, including the emphasis on joint inspections for any construction within 150 yards of the border. 

Both sides also discussed the possible presence of regional separatist armed groups in the area and their activities, marking a significant step in securing the border region.

The Bangladesh delegation was led by BGB Director General Major General Mohammad Ashrafuzzaman Siddique, while the Indian side was headed by BSF Director General Shri Daljit Singh Choudhury, with both teams comprising 13 members each.

A major highlight of the conference was the serious concern expressed by BGB Director General over the killings of Bangladeshi citizens at the border. 

He urged the BSF to take immediate action to reduce such incidents to zero. 

In response, BSF Director General reiterated the force’s commitment to adhering to a "non-lethal" policy and emphasized the need for cooperation to address cross-border crimes such as drug trafficking and smuggling, which threaten peace and security along the border.

Key Takeaways from the Conference:

1.      Preventing Violence at the Border: Both sides agreed to increase joint patrols in high-risk areas, share timely intelligence, and run awareness programs for local residents living near the border. They also agreed to implement socio-economic and developmental programs in these areas to improve relations. In case of any killing incidents, both sides pledged to ensure proper investigations and take necessary actions.

2.      Construction Within 150 Yards of the Border: Discussions centered around the construction of structures such as fences, bunkers, and defensive walls within 150 yards of the border. Both countries agreed that these constructions would be subject to joint inspections, and any development work would be addressed through mutual discussion and verification.

3.      Combating Cross-Border Crime: The two sides pledged to work together to curb the trafficking of drugs, including phensedyl, yaba, and marijuana, as well as the smuggling of livestock, gold, weapons, and counterfeit currency. They also agreed to share information regarding any individuals involved in these illegal activities.

4.      Preventing Illegal Border Crossings: To prevent misunderstandings and conflicts arising from illegal border crossings by individuals from either country, both sides agreed to increase surveillance at the border. They also committed to raising awareness among border residents about the consequences of crossing the border illegally.

5.      Tackling Human Trafficking: Both parties acknowledged the growing threat of human trafficking and pledged to take effective action to prevent such crimes. They agreed to assist each other in combating the criminal networks involved and in rescuing and rehabilitating trafficking victims according to the laws of both countries.

6.      Environmental and Security Cooperation: The two countries discussed the installation of water treatment plants to address waste disposal in four canals flowing from Agartala to Akhaura. They also agreed to unblock the mouth of the Rahimpur Canal at the Kushiyara River in Zakiganj and to continue monitoring the activities of separatist armed groups in the region.

7.      Strengthening Future Cooperation: Both delegations praised the progress made under the Integrated Border Management Plan (IBMP) and agreed to continue fostering mutual trust through cooperative measures. They also decided to hold joint sports events, joint retreat ceremonies, and other bilateral activities in the future.

This conference marks a step toward greater cooperation between the two neighboring countries, aiming to ensure peace, security, and mutual prosperity along the Bangladesh-India border.