India’s Ministry of External Affairs summoned Bangladesh’s Deputy High Commissioner, Nural Islam, following Dhaka’s concerns over border fencing and a recent civilian casualty. The move comes after Bangladesh summoned Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma, raising objections to BSF activities.
he Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) summoned Bangladesh’s Deputy High Commissioner, Nural Islam, on Monday, marking an escalation in diplomatic tensions between the two neighbors. This follows Dhaka’s summon of Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma on Sunday over border-related concerns.
Bangladesh’s Objections to Border Fencing
Bangladesh’s Foreign Ministry expressed “deep concern” regarding the Border Security Force (BSF) activities along the Indo-Bangladesh border, including the “unauthorized attempt” to construct barbed wire fencing.
“These activities have caused tensions and disturbances along the border,” said Bangladesh Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin during his meeting with Pranay Verma. He also highlighted the killing of a Bangladeshi citizen at Sunamganj by BSF, describing it as a source of “deep concern and disappointment.”
India’s Response
Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma emphasized the need for a cooperative approach to ensure a crime-free border.
“I met the Foreign Secretary to discuss India’s commitment to ensuring a crime-free border, addressing challenges like smuggling, movement of criminals, and trafficking,” Verma said after the meeting.
Verma reiterated that both border forces, BSF and Bangladesh’s Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), are in communication to maintain understanding and implement cooperative measures.
Broader Implications
The border tensions come at a time when both countries are working to strengthen bilateral ties. However, issues like cross-border smuggling, human trafficking, and disputes over fencing construction remain sticking points.
As both nations navigate these challenges, dialogue between their diplomatic and security agencies will be critical to ensuring border stability and fostering mutual trust.
