Tensions escalated at the India-Bangladesh border in Malda’s Sukhdevpur on January 18, following a clash between farmers from both sides over disputed crops and land. The conflict began when Indian farmers accused Bangladeshi farmers of stealing crops and farming equipment from their fields located near the BSF's 119th border outpost. Indian farmers, going about their routine work, noticed their Bangladeshi counterparts harvesting crops from Indian territory, which led to a heated altercation.
The situation quickly spiraled into a violent confrontation as both sides began throwing stones at each other. The Border Security Force (BSF) and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) were deployed to restore order, and despite their intervention, the tensions continued. BSF reports indicate that Indian farmers were pushed back, but some Bangladeshi nationals were still observed within 50 to 75 meters of the international border well into the afternoon, prompting the BGB to continue efforts to disperse them.
This area, located near the international border, has been a point of contention for months due to disputed farmland. Indian farmers have long cultivated land near the border, but recent attempts by the BSF to extend the barbed wire fence have worsened tensions. An open stretch of around 1,200 meters of unfenced land has led to frequent cross-border disputes, with Indian farmers alleging that their crops are being looted by miscreants from across the border.
Indian farmers have voiced concerns that their livelihoods are being threatened, as they fear further incursions and theft. They claim that while they follow strict regulations to work on their land, individuals from Bangladesh continue to trespass and damage crops. The BSF has advised Indian farmers to avoid direct confrontations and instead report such incidents to the authorities for resolution.
Efforts are being made to resolve the situation through improved coordination between the BSF and BGB unit commanders. A flag meeting between both forces has already been held, and additional BSF personnel have been deployed to ensure peace in the area. Local officials are also working to address the concerns of farmers and prevent further escalation of the dispute.
