BGB returns fire after BSF shooting along Chuadanga border

The Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) reportedly returned fire in response to gunshots fired by India's Border Security Force (BSF) along the Harirhar Nagar border in Jibannagar upazila of Chuadanga on Friday night.

According to local sources, a Bangladeshi national, identified as Monir, 35, was shot in the leg and allegedly detained by the BSF after crossing into Indian territory illegally. His condition and whereabouts could not be independently confirmed.

The incident reportedly occurred around 9pm near a place known as Baroghat, beside Harirhar Nagar Beel. 

Monir, son of Liaquat, is a resident of Uttarpara village in the upazila.

Local sources said several other men accompanying Monir escaped by jumping into a nearby canal after the gunfire.

Former local union parishad member Titu said he heard gunshots near the border fence and later learned that Monir was allegedly taken into BSF custody.

In a WhatsApp message sent shortly after midnight, Major Toasin Habib Hasan, acting director of the 58 BGB Battalion in Maheshpur, said gunshots were heard approximately 200 yards inside Indian territory, near main demarcation pillar 6/1-S.

He said a BGB patrol team from the Medinipur border outpost rushed to the area and returned fire, citing the safety of border residents. 

According to information received by the BGB, a BSF patrol team from the Tungi camp under the 32 BSF Battalion opened fire on a Bangladeshi national who allegedly crossed into Indian territory.

Communication between BGB and BSF commanders is ongoing, and a flag meeting has been requested.