At least 296 Bangladeshis have been killed in border areas over the last ten years, with little sign of improvement in the situation, according to a new report by Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK), a legal and human rights organization.
Of the total deaths, 213 were caused by gunfire from India’s Border Security Force (BSF), while more than 300 others sustained injuries during border incidents.
Rising Toll in 2025
The report highlights that in 2025 alone; 34 Bangladeshis were killed 24 by gunshots and 10 through physical torture. Another 38 were injured, and 14 were abducted, though four were later released. ASK noted that most violations originated from the Indian side of the border.
A Decade of Violence
Border killings have become a grim regularity, with Bangladesh recording one of the highest numbers of border-related deaths worldwide.
- 2024: 30 killed, 25 by gunfire, four by torture, one after being chased; 25 injured.
- 2023: 31 killed, including 28 by gunfire; 31 injured.
- 2022: 23 killed, 15 injured.
- 2021: 18 killed, nine injured, three abducted.
- 2020: Deadliest year with 48 killed, 26 injured, 22 abducted.
- 2019: 43 killed, 48 injured, 34 abducted.
- 2018: 14 killed, 15 injured, 15 abducted.
- 2017: 24 killed, 46 abducted (13 later returned).
- 2016: 31 killed, 39 injured, 24 abducted (20 repatriated).
Human Rights Concerns
ASK stressed that the recurring violence underscores the vulnerability of communities living near the border and reflects a persistent human rights crisis. The organization urged stronger diplomatic engagement between Bangladesh and India to prevent further bloodshed and ensure civilian safety.
Rights groups have also called on international bodies to intervene, warning that the lack of accountability and ineffective border management continues to put lives at risk
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