Mehanati.in: In a recent statement, Kirity Roy, Secretary of MASUM (Banglar Manabadhikar Suraksha Mancha), highlighted the ongoing struggles faced by communities living along the Indo-Bangladesh border due to the deployment practices of the Border Security Force (BSF). The organization has been actively advocating for the rights and dignity of these marginalized populations, focusing on the systemic issues that arise from living in a militarized zone.
According to Roy, "Instead of being stationed at the actual international border, BSF personnel often establish temporary check posts deep within Indian Territory, sometimes as far as 1 to 10 kilometers inside the villages." This practice, he emphasizes, disrupts the daily lives of Indian citizens residing in these border areas.
The inward positioning of the BSF has multiple consequences. It creates significant gaps in border management, leading to increased criminal activities from across the border. Roy notes that this "compromise[s] the safety and security of Indian villagers, leaving them vulnerable to criminal activities." Furthermore, the constant surveillance and restrictions placed by the BSF severely limit the freedom of movement for the villagers, leading to harassment and creating an atmosphere of fear.
MASUM has intervened in several instances to address these issues. For example, after MASUM's efforts, BSF personnel from Farajipara Battalion No. 46 vacated a temporary camp near Toltoli village, returning to their designated positions at the international border. Similarly, MASUM's intervention led to the relocation of BSF personnel from BOP Mourasi, Battalion 73, who had set up a camp within a village area.
Despite these successes, challenges persist in various border districts, including Murshidabad, North 24 Pargana, Cooch Behar, and others. Roy points out that in Murshidabad, blocks such as Jalangi, Raninagar, and Sagarpara continue to face issues due to the BSF's improper positioning.
MASUM calls for the BSF to return to their designated posts at the international border, stating, "This will ensure the security of the border while allowing the residents of these areas to live peaceful and dignified lives." The organization stresses the importance of protecting the rights and freedoms of Indian citizens in these border areas, urging the government to adopt people-centric policies and implement measures that address the struggles faced by the borderland population.
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