A case in point is the lynching of four Bangladeshis across the Bangladesh border in the Indian territory after their abduction which is not in the category of issues that fall under the definition of routine 'border problem'. We condemn this brutality. Even if one were to say that the Bangladeshis had 'trespassed' into the Indian territory, although reports suggest otherwise, was it not for the BSF to take it up with the BDR, instead of letting these unfortunates be victims of an inhuman act?

Allegations are there that the Bangladeshis were handed over to the Indian villagers by the BSF, which, if true, is a reprehensible conduct by any norm. It seems that this was a retributive action. The BSF had, reportedly, offered a prize on the head of one of those lynched. Regrettably this occurred only a few days after three of our nationals died by BSF bullets in Putia.

We notice with dismay the inordinate delay in holding flag meetings following such deplorable incidents. In fact an incident of border killings of Bangladeshis happened while a flag meeting was in progress. Clearly, the decisions of the flag meetings are observed in their disregard rather than in their adherence. Failure of the field level troops to implement orders causes one to wonder whether the local BSF personnel are acting on their own or that there is a miscommunication between what is declared and what is allowed to happen.

Flag meetings must be held on a regular basis, which would, we feel prevent such incidents from happening. And, orders stemming from decisions at higher levels can be violated only on pain of severe punishment.

Good intentions and commitment to peace can prevent such senseless killings that can detract both parties from addressing the real extant border issues.