We are left disappointed by India’s recent action of forcibly pushing at least 123 individuals -- including Rohingya refugees and Bangla-speaking people -- across the border into Bangladesh.
This is a clear violation of international standards and diplomatic understanding. The incident, which unfolded along the Kurigram and Khagrachari border points, compels us to question India’s commitment to due process, not to mention having any semblance of humanitarian responsibility.
We must also credit the response made by Bangladesh - one that has been measured and reasonable. Officials have rightfully emphasized that any return of Bangladeshi nationals must occur through formal, verifiable channels, not through coercion or subterfuge.
National Security Adviser Khalilur Rahman has said it best: “If they are identified as citizens of Bangladesh, we will accept them. This will have to be done in a formal channel. Pushing them in is not the way.”
Indeed, such restraint stands in stark contrast to India’s heavy-handed approach; these individuals were pushed into Bangladesh without documentation or proper identification. Such actions not only flout the principles of bilateral cooperation and respect but also undermine the basic tenets of human rights.
This episode comes at a time of heightened regional tensions, compounded by the increased animosity being displayed by India and Pakistan. Rather than attempt to act as a stabilizing force, these actions by India only risk exacerbating insecurity and mistrust in our region.
India has long been our closest ally and trading partner, and as such, we expect better from the nation that identifies itself as the world’s largest democracy. It should know that it is transparent, humane, and lawful procedures that are needed for dealing with migrants and refugees. Anything less is blatant disregard for responsibility.
