In a heart-wrenching incident at the Bangladesh-India border, 18 Bangladeshis, including women and children, were pushed back into Bangladesh by India’s Border Security Force (BSF) through Naogaon’s Dhamoirhat and Sapahar upazilas, leaving families devastated and raising questions about cross-border treatment. The early morning operation has sparked outrage and concern among locals, who fear for the safety and dignity of those forcibly returned.
Recent Bangladeshis Group Pushbacks
The group, comprising 14 individuals—three children, seven women, and four men—was detained near the Kalupara border in Dhamoirhat, close to Border Pillar 271/1-S, after being spotted 50 yards inside Bangladeshi territory. A Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) patrol team, led by Habildar Rupom Chakma, took them into custody. In a separate incident, four more Bangladeshis—two women and two children—were pushed back through the Bamonpara border in Sapahar, detained 800 yards inside Bangladesh at Rasulpur village. Lt Col Mohammad Iqbal Hossain, commanding officer of BGB 14 Battalion, confirmed the incidents, noting the emotional toll on the returnees.
Background of These Migrations
During questioning, the detainees shared their stories of hardship. They revealed they had crossed into India years ago through Satkhira and Benapole borders, seeking work as masons and domestic helpers in Mumbai. Arrested by India’s Criminal Investigation Department at different times, they were flown to Pune Airport and handed over to the BSF via Balurghat police before being pushed back. “We just wanted a better life,” said one woman, her voice breaking as she described leaving her children behind in India. Their accounts paint a picture of desperation, dreams of opportunity, and the harsh reality of deportation.
Bangladesh-India Border Tension
The pushbacks have reignited tensions along the Bangladesh-India border, where similar incidents have become alarmingly frequent. Since May 7, over 1,000 individuals have been forcibly returned through various border points, often without formal repatriation processes, according to BGB reports. These actions, which include allegations of torture and inhumane treatment, have drawn sharp criticism from Bangladesh. “Such unilateral actions violate human rights and bilateral agreements,” said Maj Gen Mohammad Ashrafuzzaman Siddiqui, BGB director general, urging India to follow established protocols.
The Family Disturbance over Border Conflict
For the families involved, the pain is personal. Children clung to their mothers, confused and frightened, as they were handed over to local police in Dhamoirhat and Sapahar for legal processing. Community members, witnessing the exhausted group, expressed solidarity. “They’re our people, pushed back like they’re nothing,” said a Rasulpur villager, his frustration palpable. The incident underscores the human cost of migration and the need for compassionate solutions.
Bangladeshis Reactions over These Push-Backs
Bangladesh has repeatedly called on India to stop these pushbacks, citing violations of agreements like the 1975 India-Bangladesh joint guidelines and the 2011 Coordinated Border Management Plan. Dhaka has sent multiple letters to New Delhi, emphasizing that repatriation must follow verified, transparent processes. Yet, India’s External Affairs Ministry insists it is addressing illegal migration “as per law,” with over 2,300 Bangladeshi nationals awaiting nationality verification for deportation.
Broader Struggle for Bangladeshis
As the Bangladesh-India border remains a flashpoint, the plight of these 18 individuals highlights a broader struggle. Families torn apart by economic hardship and now by forced returns deserve dignity and fairness. The call for humane treatment and diplomatic solutions grows louder, as both nations grapple with the complexities of migration and security. For now, the focus remains on ensuring the Bangladesh-India border becomes a bridge for cooperation, not a barrier to humanity. India must pay attention to maintain peace across border areas.
Published in South Asian Desk, August 9th, 2025
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