Why Were Two Bangladeshi Nationals Detained in Cooch Behar?

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Why Were Two Bangladeshi Nationals Detained in Cooch Behar?

Synopsis

In an unexpected incident, two Bangladeshi nationals were detained in West Bengal for illegally entering India to experience Durga Puja. This situation raises significant questions about border security and the plight of religious minorities in Bangladesh. Read on to uncover the details.

Key Takeaways

  • Two Bangladeshi nationals were caught illegally crossing the border.
  • The incident occurred in Cooch Behar district.
  • Villagers played a crucial role in their apprehension.
  • Legal proceedings are ongoing with a four-day police custody order.
  • The incident raises awareness about the challenges faced by Hindus in Bangladesh.

Kolkata, Sep 27 (NationPress) In a surprising turn of events, villagers in West Bengal apprehended two Bangladeshi nationals for illegally crossing the border to witness Durga Puja, as reported by the police on Saturday.

Subsequently, the two individuals were turned over to West Bengal Police.

This incident unfolded in the Haldibari block of Cooch Behar district, located in northern Bengal.

The villagers from Parmekhliganj, a border locality, intercepted the two men who had crossed over unlawfully.

As per local reports, a biker was seen navigating through the darkness, heading toward Dewanganj from the open border along the Teesta River, with two passengers on his bike.

The villagers grew suspicious of the biker and his passengers, noticing they were unfamiliar faces.

When asked to stop, the duo attempted to flee on their motorcycles.

The villagers pursued them, and the biker fled, abandoning the two individuals, leading to their capture.

A senior police officer from Cooch Behar stated, "Upon overhearing their conversation, the villagers realized they were from Bangladesh, and had come to India to experience Durga Puja. After gathering the details, they alerted the Haldibari police station. Our officers swiftly arrived at the scene, arrested the two Bangladeshis, and took them to the police station."

The apprehended individuals have been identified as Dashrath Roy (27) and Kalidas Roy (50), hailing from Domar village in Nilphamari district of Bangladesh.

From the arrested men, several Indian currency notes and a mobile phone were confiscated.

They underwent a medical evaluation at Haldibari Rural Hospital.

When presented at the Mekhliganj Subdistrict Court on Saturday, the court ordered a four-day police custody.

In the meantime, Panchali Dev Sikder Nag, a lawyer and North Bengal coordinator for Hindu Jagran Manch, commented on the plight of Hindus in Bangladesh following this event.

"Everyone is aware of the unfortunate circumstances faced by Hindus in Bangladesh. They struggle to partake in Durga Puja celebrations. However, India provides safety for Hindus. They entered India illegally driven by their passion. While they have been arrested, the Indian government has enacted the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), easing the path to Indian citizenship. Our message is clear: if you face persecution, renounce your citizenship in that country and apply for citizenship in India as per the established guidelines."

Point of View

Particularly Hindus in Bangladesh. While the apprehended individuals entered illegally, their motivations speak to a deeper issue. As a nation, India must navigate these complexities with compassion and adherence to the law.
NationPress
27/09/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened in Cooch Behar?
Two Bangladeshi nationals were detained by villagers for illegally entering India to witness Durga Puja.
Who are the detained individuals?
The detained individuals have been identified as Dashrath Roy and Kalidas Roy from Nilphamari district, Bangladesh.
What actions did the villagers take?
Villagers pursued and apprehended the two men after they attempted to flee on a motorcycle.
What is the legal status of the detainees?
The court has ordered a four-day police custody after they were presented in court.
What does this incident signify?
This incident highlights concerns about border security and the plight of persecuted Hindus in Bangladesh.
Nation Press