Assam: Tensions flare at Indo-Bangladesh border after suspected Bangladeshi arrested over cattle theft

A high-voltage drama unfolded at the Adamtilla tea estate, located near the India-Bangladesh border in Patharkandi’s Sribhumi area, Assam after locals caught one suspected Bangladeshi cattle thief, leading to serious allegations against the Border Security Force (BSF).

 

According to local reports, three cows were stolen last night (July 6) from the residence of Shia Shankar Kairi, a resident of the border village. In a swift response, villagers managed to nab one of the suspects earlier today and subjected him to a physical confrontation before alerting authorities.

 

The situation escalated when personnel from the 134 Battalion of the BSF, stationed at Mohangul Camp, arrived on the scene and allegedly attempted to rescue the accused by whisking him away in a BSF vehicle. This triggered massive protests from the local population, who accused the BSF of sheltering the cross-border intruder instead of handing him over to state authorities.

 

Enraged residents blocked the BSF vehicle for nearly two hours, demanding that the accused be handed over to the Assam Police. The crowd refused to relent, insisting on due legal procedures to be followed.

 

During a search of the accused’s belongings, locals recovered a rope, a torch, and Bangladeshi identification documents, confirming his nationality. He was later identified as Zahir Uddin, reportedly a resident of Barolekha, Bangladesh.

 

After a lengthy standoff and heated exchanges, BSF officials took the accused back to their camp, sparking renewed anger among residents. Protesters raised slogans such as "BSF is the thief", expressing their discontent over what they claimed was blatant protection extended to an international trespasser involved in criminal activity.

 

Local leaders and villagers are now demanding a thorough inquiry into the BSF’s actions, urging both the state and central governments to take immediate note of the breach of trust and security protocol.