- Border killings continue despite repeated assurances from Indian authorities.
- BSF responsible for most fatalities, with additional deaths caused by civilians.
- Human rights groups urge accountability and stricter protocols.
- Families of victims demand justice as violence escalates.
- Both governments face increasing pressure to resolve the crisis.
The Bangladesh-India border has long been a hotspot for Indian violence, with a rising number of Bangladeshi nationals losing their lives. In 2023, 25 Bangladeshis were killed in border incidents, with 19 shot by India’s Border Security Force (BSF) and six killed by Indian civilians, according to Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) data.
Despite repeated commitments from BSF to minimize border casualties, lethal force continues to be used. In 2024, 19 more Bangladeshis were killed by BSF personnel, while five others died at the hands of Indian civilians. This trend persisted into 2025, with three more fatalities recorded in the first two months of the year.
Unfulfilled Assurances and Growing Outrage
For years, BSF officials have pledged to curb border killings. However, the numbers tell a different story. The violence disproportionately affects Bangladeshis, many of whom cross the border in search of economic opportunities, trade, or migration.
Bangladeshi authorities and human rights organizations have condemned the excessive use of force. Advocacy groups call for immediate policy changes to prevent further bloodshed. International pressure is also mounting as border violence tarnishes bilateral relations.
Lt Col SM Shafiqur Rahman, Director of Operations at BGB Headquarters, revealed that in the past decade, 220 Bangladeshis were killed by BSF, while Indian civilians were responsible for 57 deaths.
Rahman stressed that BGB strictly adheres to international human rights laws. “If an Indian national illegally enters Bangladesh, we detain them and transfer them to the appropriate authorities. We do not open fire,” he stated.
He further emphasized that BGB has consistently urged BSF to apprehend, rather than shoot, individuals who cross the border illegally. “Whenever we meet with BSF at any level, we demand an end to these shootings,” Rahman said.
Smuggling and Cross-Border Tensions
Illegal border crossings, largely driven by smuggling, remain a challenge. Rahman explained that cross-border smuggling syndicates operate on both sides. Disputes among smugglers frequently lead to deadly clashes, with BSF often resorting to firearms.
The vast and porous nature of the border adds to the difficulty. Each Border Outpost (BOP) is manned by only 20 to 35 personnel, making surveillance challenging. Despite BGB’s efforts, some individuals unknowingly cross the border and fall victim to violence.
Calls for Justice and Policy Reform
Families of victims continue to seek justice, demanding accountability from both governments. Human rights organizations are urging India to adopt non-lethal methods for handling border crossings.
As tensions rise, diplomatic efforts must intensify to ensure a humane and secure border policy. The pressure is now on both nations to protect civilian lives and foster lasting peace in the region.