Hindus from Bangladesh Seek Refuge in India

Haridaspur, India – Security measures have been intensified at the Haridaspur border post as a surge of individuals flee escalating violence in Bangladesh following the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The atmosphere at South Asia’s largest land port was charged with anxiety on Thursday, as many sought refuge from the turmoil that has engulfed their homeland. Passengers arriving from Bangladesh expressed a mix of relief and despair, with some breaking down in tears over the chaos they left behind. Among those crossing into India was Sheeba Pal, 46, who recounted her harrowing escape from targeted attacks against the Hindu minority. “My family and I are alive because we escaped before the attack,” she shared, highlighting the urgency that drove her and her daughters to seek safety in West Bengal. While individuals with medical visas were prioritized, many others managed to convince Indian immigration officials of their dire circumstances to gain entry. The situation in Bangladesh deteriorated rapidly, prompting many to flee. One returnee described the night of his departure as “the most vulnerable night in decades.” In response to the influx, India’s Border Security Force has been instructed to exercise heightened vigilance regarding who is permitted to enter the country. A significant group of nearly 600 individuals was turned away at a checkpoint in West Bengal’s Jalpaiguri district, reflecting the ongoing challenges at the border amid the unrest in Bangladesh.