Agartala, January 27, 2025: Fresh tensions erupted along the India-Bangladesh international border in Tripura’s Kailashahar under Unakoti district after two Indian farmers were brutally attacked by Bangladeshi nationals at the zero point near Gate No. 44 in the Hirachara area. The attack left the two brothers Karim Ali (34) and Jamir Ali critically injured and battling for their lives at the Unakoti District Hospital.
Local sources said, the victims are both farmers by profession, had entered the zero point on January 26 after signing the BSF register as per routine protocol. The brothers cultivate paddy and betel leaves on their land at the border. Upon reaching their fields, they discovered significant damage—betel leaves had been uprooted, and paddy crops destroyed. “The sight was devastating. We couldn’t contain our anguish and started shouting,” recounted Karim Ali from his hospital bed.
Later that day, as the brothers were heading home, they were ambushed by a group of 10-12 Bangladeshi nationals armed with sharp knives, iron rods, and sticks. The attackers inflicted severe injuries, cutting Karim’s left hand and back, and striking Jamir on the head and back. The attackers fled the scene, leaving the brothers bleeding and unconscious.
Karim described the ordeal, saying, “We somehow managed to reach Gate No. 44 and screamed for help. Our relatives rushed us to the hospital.” Doctors at the hospital have stated that Karim’s injuries are so severe that one of his fingers will need to be amputated.
The BSF, stationed at Gate No. 44, were unable to intervene as the incident occurred out of their line of sight. Local police from Irani police station have since launched an investigation into the attack.
This incident has reignited concerns over security at the India-Bangladesh border. Just earlier this month, on January 7, Bangladeshi nationals reportedly attacked BSF jawans in Maguruli village, attempting to snatch their weapons. Additionally, the construction of an illegal dam by Bangladesh in the Debipur area has drawn sharp criticism, leading to a Congress-led protest march on January 25.
“The recurring border tensions are unacceptable. We demand immediate action to ensure the safety of Indian citizens,” stated a local leader during a press briefing.
