In the past decade, a recent report from the Human Rights Support Society reveals that 305 Bangladeshis have been killed by India’s Border Security Force (BSF). This unsettling trend points to a systematic issue rather than isolated incidents, showcasing a troubling pattern of extrajudicial killings along the shared border.
The BSF’s actions often bypass due process, with personnel assuming the roles of judge, jury, and executioner in fatal encounters. These incidents, far from being sporadic, highlight a disturbing policy that grants impunity to border enforcement actions.
The dehumanization of victims plays a pivotal role in enabling such brutality. From labeling individuals as “miscreants” or “criminals” on the ground to bureaucratic rhetoric at higher levels, the narrative diminishes the humanity of those affected. For instance, India’s Ministry of External Affairs deflects accountability for alleged pushbacks of Bangladeshi immigrants by reducing them to a mere statistic on a “pending list.” This depersonalization creates an environment conducive to border violence and illegal actions.
The BSF’s actions blatantly disregard international ethical standards, such as the UN Basic Principles on the Use of Force and Firearms, which emphasize necessity, proportionality, and accountability. Despite these guidelines, border aggressions persist without adequate consequences or accountability measures, pointing to a deliberate lack of oversight within the BSF.
To address this ongoing crisis, a proposed standing binational commission on border incidents is suggested as a key initiative. Comprising impartial figures from both nations, this commission would drive a comprehensive strategy for reform, focusing on truth, reform, bilateral justice, and addressing root causes to prevent further escalations.
Ultimately, the current state of affairs along the India-Bangladesh border underscores the urgent need for a reformed approach to justice and prevention. It is imperative to move beyond diplomatic formalities and prioritize tangible actions that uphold human rights and accountability on both sides of the border.