Agartala, January 6:
The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) on Tuesday staged a protest in Tripura demanding a complete suspension of border trade with Bangladesh, citing a series of recent attacks and killings of members of the Hindu community in the neighbouring country.
VHP activists organised the demonstration at the Raghna check post and border trade point along the India–Bangladesh border in northern Tripura. The protesters called for an immediate halt to all border trade and export-related activities with Bangladesh as a mark of protest against the violence. A large contingent of security personnel was deployed at the site to maintain law and order during the several-hour-long agitation.
Tripura shares a long and sensitive border with Bangladesh and has the highest number of border trade points in the Northeast, including six operational trading points, of which two are Integrated Check Posts (ICPs). Regular trade is conducted through these routes. Overall, four northeastern states—Tripura, Meghalaya, Mizoram and Assam—share a 1,880-kilometre border with Bangladesh, dotted with multiple trade points.
The protest followed reports of at least six Hindu men being killed in Bangladesh over the past three weeks, most of them reportedly businessmen. Bangladeshi media have carried reports of mob violence, targeted attacks, and shootings in different districts, triggering concern and outrage in India.
VHP leaders alleged that violence against minorities, including Hindus, has been on the rise in Bangladesh in recent weeks. They claimed that the situation has worsened under the current interim administration, leading to fear and insecurity among minority communities.
Citing reports from Bangladeshi newspapers and police sources, the protesters said the repeated incidents reflect a disturbing trend that cannot be ignored. They urged the Indian government to take a firm stand and reassess trade relations until the safety of minorities is ensured.
The issue has drawn attention from various quarters, with human rights organisations also expressing concern over the reported attacks. The VHP warned that protests would intensify if concrete steps are not taken to address the situation and protect vulnerable communities across the border.
