Republic Day 2018: Here's why BSF refused to exchange sweets with Pak rangers this year

The Border Security Force (BSF) on Friday refused to exchange sweets and greetings with their Pakistani counterparts - the Pakistan Rangers, on the occasion of the 69th Republic Day.

The move by the BSF came following the heightened tension between both countries along the International Border (IB) and Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir due to repeated ceasefire violations by Pakistani forces leading to killing of soldiers and civilians on the Indian side.

Tension continues to prevail along the IB and LoC for the past few months due to repeated ceasefire violations.

BSF KK Sharma at the Attari Wagah Border said: "Atmosphere was such that no exchange of sweets took place with Pakistan Rangers. I think in the coming time old tradition of exchanging sweets will be revived soon."

Ceasefire violations was the main issue of discussion during flag meeting with Pakistan. Both sides agreed that ceasefire violations should be reduced. BSF never initiates ceasefire violation: DG BSF KK Sharma at Attari Wagah border #RepublicDay pic.twitter.com/FWQ7VG0Nj8

— ANI (@ANI) January 26, 2018

However, sweets were exchanged between troops of the Border Security Force (BSF) and Border Guards, Bangladesh at the Fulbari border in West Bengal’s Jalpaiguri district.

It has been a long running tradition between the two forces to exchange sweets on the occasion.

The tradition assumes significance as it shows goodwill between both the nations.

Thirteen people, including seven civilians and six jawans, were killed in ceasefire violations by Pakistani troops along the LoC and International Border in Jammu region last week.