ASK expresses concern over 'push-in' at border

Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) has expressed deep concern over the recent forcible 'push-in' of many people, including women, children and the elderly, along the Bangladesh-India border. In a press release on Thursday, June 11, the rights organisation urged both countries to find a humane resolution to the issue.

According to media reports, ASK stated that attempts have been made to push many people towards Bangladesh at various border points. In many cases, they have been forced into Bangladesh without proper verification of their nationality and identity, and without following legal procedures .

The organisation said that even if a person is suspected of being a citizen of another country, inhuman or degrading treatment is not acceptable. A person's fundamental rights do not depend on their nationality, religion, language or immigration status .

ASK further noted that in recent incidents, many people have been forced to remain in the zero line for days, deprived of food, clean water, medical care and safe shelter. Such situations are contrary to humanitarian values and, in many cases, may also be considered cruel and inhumane treatment .

The organisation believes the question of a person's citizenship should be resolved through a transparent, legal and mutually recognised process. This requires information exchange, identity verification and necessary diplomatic initiatives between the two countries .

ASK has called upon the authorities of Bangladesh and India to address the situation by prioritising human rights, the rule of law and humanitarian values, and to ensure the safety and dignity of people stranded at the border .