BSF personnel sent to troubled Indo-Bangladesh border

Two more companies of BSF personnel were sent to the sensitive Muktapur area along the Indo-Bangla border here for patrolling and carrying out flag march in view of repeated firings allegedly by BDR.

"BSF DG has ordered deployment of two more companies in Dawki-Muktapur area. He has also instructed the forces to carry out intensive patrolling and flag march to ensure security to the residents," an official statement from BSF said today.

BDR personnel opened "unprovoked fire" on Indian villagers prompting BSF to retaliate at three places along the border near Muktapur yesterday.

"BSF top brass has instructed its personnel that if BDR resorts to any misadventure, they should deal with firmly and response should be calibrated and effective," the statement said.

BDR personnel had also resorted to similar firings on February 4 and 14 in the area bordering Sylhet district of Bangladesh.

A commandant-level flag meeting was held near Muktapur this morning where BSF protested the incident. BDR agreed to maintain status quo, officials said.

Meanwhile, Meghalaya deputy chief minister B M Lanong today said the stand-off in Muktapur has been brought to the notice of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.