Tensions over Farakka dispute in political arena

Political and religious organisations in Bangladesh have expressed strong concern over the Farakka water dispute and border killings, urging the BNP government to take a tougher diplomatic stance against India.

 Progotishil Jatiyotabadi Dal (PNP) organised a discussion meeting at its central office in Paltan in the capital, marking the historic Farakka Long March Day. The party accused India of continuing "unfriendly and unilateral behaviour" despite decades-long disputes over water sharing.

PNP Chairman Firoz Mohammad Liton said the 1976 Farakka Long March, led by Maulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhashani, was a historic movement aimed at protecting Bangladesh's water rights. He claimed that the construction of the Farakka Barrage reduced water flow in the Padma River basin, causing environmental degradation and agricultural losses.

"National unity is needed to resist efforts that could push Bangladesh toward an ecological crisis," he said, demanding stronger government action regarding water-sharing and border issues.

Islami Andolon Bangladesh criticized India's water policy during a training workshop, describing it as harmful to Bangladesh and the wider region. Party leaders said the Farakka Barrage had disrupted natural river flows and negatively affected millions of people dependent on river-based livelihoods.

Party Secretary General Principal Hafiz Maulana Yunus Ahmad called for international attention to the "social and humanitarian impacts" of the Farakka issue, urging political resistance to safeguard national interests.

 Islami Chhatra Andolon Bangladesh protested alleged border killings of Bangladeshi citizens and reported attacks on Muslims in India's West Bengal.

Speaking at a training programme in the capital, its President Muntaasir Ahmad said repeated border killings violated international law and human rights

The party demanded that the government summon the Indian High Commissioner, raise the issue at international forums, and ensure justice and compensation for the victims.

The statements reflect growing political tensions in Bangladesh over water-sharing disputes and border-related incidents, alongside increasing calls for stronger diplomatic initiatives.