Local businessman subjected to physical assault, verbal abuse: Demand for accountability, justice

By Kirity Roy*

On October 9, 2024, a disturbing incident of harassment and abuse took place in the Swarupnagar Block of North 24 Parganas district, involving a local businessman, Hasanur Gazi, who was subjected to physical assault, verbal abuse, and religious discrimination by a Border Security Force (BSF) constable. The incident, which occurred at the Hakimpur Checkpost, has raised serious concerns about the safety and dignity of citizens living in border areas, especially those belonging to religious minorities.

The Incident

Gazi, a resident of Tarali Village and owner of a local shop in Swarupdaha, was returning home when he was stopped by BSF personnel at the Hakimpur Checkpost, which is situated approximately 1.5 kilometers from the international border. The BSF constable mistook Gazi for a smuggler and subjected him to an unprovoked and violent confrontation.

According to Gazi, the BSF constable verbally abused him in Hindi, physically assaulted him, and even attempted to dismantle his motorbike. When Gazi protested, the constable, in a further display of aggression, targeted his religion, making derogatory remarks about his faith and pulling at his beard. the constable then threatened Gazi with false charges and jail time, despite finding no illegal items during the search. The confrontation ended with Gazi’s motorbike being severely damaged.

This incident violates Gazi’s constitutional rights, including the right to personal dignity and life (Article 21), equality (Article 14), and protection from religious discrimination (Article 15). The actions of the BSF personnel also contravene international human rights standards, such as Articles 6, 7, 9, and 12(1) of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).

The Aftermath

After the attack, Gazi attempted to seek justice by filing complaints with both the Swarupnagar Block Development Officer (BDO) and the Basirhat Police District Superintendent. However, to date, his complaints have been ignored, and he has not received any response or compensation for the damage to his property. This lack of action has left him vulnerable to further harassment.

The failure of local authorities to address Gazi’s grievances is part of a larger pattern of impunity for those in positions of power, particularly in border regions, where religious minorities, particularly Muslims, often face systemic abuse and discrimination.

A Call for Action

In light of the serious violations of Gazi’s rights and the systemic nature of such incidents, there is an urgent need for accountability. I have appealed to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) to intervene and ensure justice is served. Specifically, the NHRC must:

1. Ensure a fair and transparent investigation into Gazi’s complaint.

2. Compensate Mr. Gazi for the damage to his motorbike.

3. Hold the responsible BSF personnel accountable if found guilty of misconduct.

4. Provide protection to Gazi and his family, as well as to other members of the Muslim community in the region, to prevent further harassment.

5. Take action against the commanding officer of the Tarali BOP for allowing such discriminatory behavior to persist within the ranks.

This case highlights the urgent need for authorities to protect the rights and dignity of all citizens, regardless of their religion or background. It also serves as a stark reminder of the broader climate of religious intolerance and harassment faced by minority communities living in border areas. It is imperative that the authorities act swiftly and decisively to restore public trust and ensure justice.

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Kirity Roy is the Secretary of Banglar Manabadhikar Suraksha Mancha

(MASUM)