Tensions reignited along the Bangladesh-India border in Shibganj Upazila, Chapainawabganj, on Saturday following a confrontation between citizens of both countries.

The dispute, sparked by the cutting of a mango tree branch, escalated into a chase and counter-chase at the zero point of the border.

Several Bangladeshis sustained injuries, though their identities have not yet been confirmed.

According to local reports, a group of Indian nationals allegedly entered Bangladeshi territory to cut the tree. When Bangladeshi residents intervened, a verbal altercation ensued, quickly escalating into stone-throwing, leaving some Bangladeshis critically injured.

Tensions heightened further after explosions, believed to be cocktails, were heard from the Indian side.

Lt Col Golam Kibria, Commander of the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) Battalion in Chapainawabganj, said that additional forces have been deployed to prevent further incidents.

This flare-up comes a day after India reaffirmed its commitment to improving bilateral relations with Bangladesh. 

During a press conference on Friday, India’s Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, emphasized India’s desire to strengthen ties with Bangladesh for the benefit of both nations.

The incident follows another tension-building move at the Patgram border, where the Border Security Force (BSF) reportedly hung glass bottles on the fence, sparking further unrest among residents.

BDST: 2005 HRS, JAN 18, 2025
MN/SMS