Tensions flared along the India-Bangladesh border in West Bengal on Wednesday, as protests erupted at key land ports. The demonstrations were sparked by reports of alleged atrocities against the Hindu minority community in neighbouring Bangladesh.
Protests Paralyse Border Trade Points
Agitators gathered at several integrated check posts (ICPs) and land ports, disrupting normal cross-border movement and trade activities. The protestors demanded immediate intervention from the Indian government to address the situation in Bangladesh. They raised slogans and held placards highlighting the alleged persecution.
Clashes in Howrah District
The protests took a violent turn in parts of Howrah district. Scuffles broke out between police personnel and supporters of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) who were part of the demonstration. Law enforcement officials attempted to manage the crowd and maintain order, leading to brief confrontations. The exact number of injuries or arrests, if any, was not immediately clarified by authorities.
Political Reactions and Demands
The protests were largely driven by BJP workers and affiliated groups. Leaders at the sites accused the Bangladeshi government of failing to protect its religious minorities and called upon the Indian central government to take diplomatic measures. The incident highlights how communal tensions in Bangladesh often resonate in the bordering Indian state of West Bengal, which shares deep cultural and familial ties with the neighbour.
The date of the incident, 24 December 2025, was confirmed by news agency PTI, which reported on the developments. The situation remained tense but was eventually brought under control by the police. The protests underscore the ongoing sensitivity of cross-border communal issues and their impact on regional stability and local politics in West Bengal.
