Assam: Tensions escalate at India-Bangladesh border in Karimganj; slogans raised against India

During a visit by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to Karimganj, an unsettling development occurred at the India-Bangladesh border. Bangladeshi nationals stationed at the Zakiganj immigration post used loudspeakers to broadcast provocative slogans against India.

The chants included, "Those who have their homes in Bangladesh should leave India immediately. Boycott Indian goods." This incident reflects the growing strain in India-Bangladesh relations following the recent political upheaval in Bangladesh, specifically the fall of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government.

Earlier on August 20, police arrested Ali Hussain, a broker allegedly involved in facilitating the illegal entry of Bangladeshi nationals into India. Hussain was apprehended in Hajirhat village, South Salmara district, on charges of smuggling individuals through riverine areas in exchange for money. He is also accused of providing shelter and assisting the infiltrators in crossing over to India.

Hussain's arrest followed the detention of a Bangladeshi woman in Dhubri on August 19, who was handed over to Bangladeshi authorities. The woman claimed that she and a large group had entered India with the aid of brokers, including Ali Hussain, and had paid him 2,500 Bangladeshi Taka for his services.