India, Bangladesh border forces' meet ends

NEW DELHI: The four-day Directors general-level talks of the border guarding forces of India and Bangladesh concluded at Dhaka on Saturday. The talks that started on September 16 2020, took major decisions on a number of issues.

The Indian delegation was headed by DG BSF Rakesh Asthana and the Bangladesh delegation was headed by DG BGB Maj Gen Shafeenul Islam.

After thorough discussion on the Agenda Points, both sides agreed to adhere to the conclusions reached. Highlights of the 'Joint Record of Discussions' signed by both DGs are:

(a) BSF & BGB agreed to share real time information with each other expeditiously through formal/informal channels regarding smuggling of Drugs and Narcotics, human trafficking, FICN, cattle, arms/ammunition/explosive, information related to antisocial elements, activities of IIGs (Indian Insurgent groups), breaching/damaging of IBB fence following commonly agreed specific formats for the exchange of all such vital information.

(b) The DG BSF stated that death or apprehension of criminals on the border are irrespective of nationalities. He further stated that BSF personnel fire with non-lethal weapon only in self-defence when they are surrounded by large number of miscreants armed with dah, sticks etc, and their lives are endangered. DG BSF assured that the death incidents in the border will be made to reduce significantly in the near future. Reiterating the need for joint efforts to uphold human rights and curbs violence on the border, both the sides agreed to take extra precautionary measures along the border including intensifying public awareness program, undertaking appropriate socio-economic development program and real-time information sharing.

(c) On the crossing of significant number of mentally challenged Indian nationals to Bangladesh, the DG BSF suggested that a SOP could be drawn up early in mutual consultation to address this humane issue which could expedite the disposal of such cases and alleviate the suffering of such people. Both sides agreed to look after the humanitarian aspects of the victim first and then verify the nationality of the mentally challenged persons and thereafter handing/taking over can be expedited with cooperation from one another.

5. Both sides appreciated the efforts made to improve mutual relations through various agreed upon Confidence Building Measures (CBMs). All the agreed events undertaken earlier in CBMs will be resumed once COVID-19 pandemic situation becomes normal.

6. Both the DGs expressed their satisfaction over the outcome of the conference. Both the delegation leaders reiterated their commitments to work jointly for maintaining peace and tranquility at the border. Both sides agreed to hold the next DG-level Border Conference in India, stated a release.

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