Two minors sustained bullet injuries on Saturday after Border Security Force (BSF) personnel opened fire to prevent a cross-border smuggling attempt in the Putia area of Tripura's Sepahijala district. The injured youths were rushed to Bishalgarh hospital and later referred to the AGMC hospital in Agartala, where doctors confirmed they are now out of danger.
Sequence of Events at the Border
According to reports from the local police station, the incident occurred around 10 am. A patrol team from the BSF encountered a group of individuals, suspected to be smugglers, rapidly approaching the international border fencing. Their apparent aim was to transfer Indian goods to counterparts waiting in Bangladesh. The group included the two minors.
When the BSF jawans ordered the group to halt, their commands were met with no response. This lack of compliance prompted the security personnel to open fire. The firing resulted in injuries to the two minors, who fell to the ground. The rest of the group managed to escape across the border. Following the incident, the BSF jawans, with assistance from local residents, immediately transported the injured minors to Bishalgarh hospital for initial treatment.
Heightened Security and Market Disruption
The shooting has triggered increased security measures in the Putia area as authorities work to maintain order and prevent further unlawful activities. In a related development that underscores the tense atmosphere, the weekly cattle market in the same locality was thrown into chaos and abruptly shut down at midday.
This occurred when a contingent of BSF personnel entered the market area while pursuing individuals suspected of involvement in smuggling. The sudden arrival of armed jawans caused widespread panic among the buyers and sellers present. Transactions ceased instantly, and people scattered in various directions, leading to the market being rendered completely inactive for the remainder of the day.
Aftermath and Current Status
The condition of the injured minors is reported to be stable after receiving medical attention at the AGMC hospital in Agartala. The incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by security forces along the porous India-Bangladesh border in Tripura, where smuggling attempts are frequent. Investigations into the precise circumstances of the firing and the smuggling operation are likely underway. Local authorities are focused on ensuring community calm while the BSF continues its vigilant patrols to secure the border.
