Paris, France; December 6, 2024: France-based human rights organization, JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF), strongly condemns and protests the extrajudicial killing of Anwar Hossain, a 35-year-old Bangladeshi citizen, by the Indian Border Security Force (BSF) in the early hours of December 6, 2024, at the Mominpara border in Panchagarh Sadar Upazila, Panchagarh. This tragic incident, where an unarmed Bangladeshi citizen was fatally shot, constitutes a blatant violation of national sovereignty, international human rights law, and the principles of humanity.
Fact in Brief:
In the early hours of December 6, 2024, Anwar Hossain was fatally shot by BSF personnel at the Mominpara border. Locals discovered his body inside Bangladeshi territory between sub-pillars 8 and 9 of main pillar number 751. The 35-year-old, a resident of the Devnagar-Amjuani area in Tentulia Upazila, is survived by his family.
Local residents reported hearing gunshots around 5:15 a.m. The Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) 56th Battalion confirmed that the shooting occurred while Anwar was allegedly attempting to smuggle cattle. His death has sparked outrage, and the BGB has lodged a strong protest with the BSF. The Harivasa Union Parishad chairman, Syed Noor-e-Alam, and local law enforcement have corroborated the events, adding to growing demands for justice.
Violation of International Norms:
The use of lethal force against unarmed civilians, even in alleged cases of smuggling, is neither justifiable nor lawful under international norms. Article 3 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) unequivocally states that "everyone has the right to life, liberty, and security of person." Moreover, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), to which both Bangladesh and India are signatories, enshrines the right to life as fundamental and non-derogable. The indiscriminate use of lethal force by BSF personnel violates these commitments and undermines the rule of law.
Robert Simon, French Human Rights Activist and Chief Adviser of JMBF stated, “This killing reflects a dangerous disregard for human life and international law. Border forces have a responsibility to protect, not to execute. Such actions erode trust between nations and perpetuate cycles of violence. We demand accountability and urge both the Indian and Bangladeshi governments to strengthen mechanisms to prevent such heinous violations.”
Advocate Shahanur Islam, Bangladeshi Human Rights Lawyer, and Founder President of JMBF, added, “The killing of Anwar Hossain is not an isolated incident but part of a troubling pattern of border violence. It is imperative to hold the perpetrators accountable and ensure justice for the victim's family. we calls upon the Government of Bangladesh to take immediate diplomatic and legal action to address this issue at the international level and demand compliance with the United Nations Basic Principles on the Use of Force and Firearms by Law Enforcement Officials.”
JMBF’s Demands
We extend our heartfelt condolences to Anwar Hossain’s family and stand in solidarity with all victims of border violence. JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF) reiterates its demands as follows:
Independent Investigation: Conduct an impartial investigation into this incident to determine responsibility and ensure justice.
Diplomatic Intervention: Urge the Government of Bangladesh to take strong diplomatic measures to hold the Indian authorities accountable for the BSF's actions.
Adherence to International Law: Call upon the Government of India to abide by international human rights norms and implement non-lethal measures for border management.
Border Safety Reforms: Advocate for the establishment of joint border monitoring mechanisms to prevent such incidents in the future.
Financial Compensation and Family Support: Ensure adequate financial compensation for the victim’s family. Provide support for their physical, psychological, and social reintegration to help them rebuild their lives after this tragic loss.
Call to Action:
JMBF calls on the international community, human rights organizations and the United Nations to condemn this act and support efforts to ensure justice for Anwar Hossain. The tragic loss of life must never be normalized, and concrete steps must be taken to prevent future incidents.
Thank you
Mosa. Jannatul Ferdaus
Chief Coordinator and Member of Executive Committee
JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF)
Email: jannatul.ferdaus@jmbf.org, info@jmbf.org
JMBF is an independent non-profit, nonpartisan human rights organization registered in France with registration number W931027714 under the association law of 1901, dedicated to defending human rights, fighting for justice, and empowering communities in Bangladesh and beyond.
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