The statement by Home and Agriculture Adviser Lieutenant General (Retd.) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury on Tuesday on cross-border push-ins by Indian authorities brings into sharp focus an issue of mounting diplomatic and humanitarian concern. His call for the repatriation of Bangladeshi nationals through legal procedures highlights a just position rooted in global norms, bilateral commitment and respect for human dignity.
The incidents of pushings by India reflect a blatant disregard for international norms. Since May 7, at least 1053 individuals have been pushed into Bangladesh through different border points, according to a report.
According to the Home and Agriculture Adviser, incidents of push-ins along the Bangladesh-India border have remarkably increased. In these instances, individuals suspected of being Bangladeshi nationals are being forced across the border by Indian authorities concerned with no formal identification or repatriation process. This practice, if continued, threatens to undermine the spirit of cooperation between two historically friendly neighbours.
Repatriation must be based on verification, consent and coordination. Unilateral action in the form of push-ins disregards these fundamentals. Such actions may lead to statelessness, human rights violations and unnecessary tension in border communities. More hazardously, it sets a troubling precedent where legal norms are evaded for convenience.
Bangladesh, as the Adviser highlights, continues to follow lawful procedures in returning foreign nationals found within its territory. The country’s firmness that India do the same is not a demand—it is a rightful expectation grounded in reciprocity and respect for sovereignty.
Bangladesh, as the Adviser highlights,
continues to follow lawful procedures in returning
foreign nationals found within its territory
Bangladesh has shown development in handling complicated border issues, often prioritising diplomacy and dialogue. However, repeated violations of agreed-upon protocols necessitate firmer diplomatic engagement. Both the countries have long benefited from mechanisms like the Border Coordination Conference and the Joint Consultative Commission. These platforms must be reactivated with urgency to address mounting concerns and to formulate a more transparent, cooperative repatriation framework.
The Adviser also reiterated the management’s assurance that the Bangladesh-India border remains secure and that citizens in frontier regions are safe. His statement offers public reassurance but also signals confidence in the country’s border management infrastructure.
Importantly, he also cautioned the media against exaggeration. In today's fast-paced information ecosystem, accuracy and responsibility are critical. Sensational or misleading reporting may inflame nationalist sentiment and provide fuel for external propaganda, weakening public trust and
bilateral ties.
Bangladesh has shown a consistent commitment to lawful, humane governance—both in domestic policy and international engagement. India must now respond in kind. Repatriation of citizens should never be forced, undocumented, or arbitrary. True regional stability and trust depend on due process, mutual respect and shared responsibility.
