The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has been urged to address the alleged assault and harassment of Mr. Anowar Mondal, a 20-year-old fisherman from Parashpur village in the Murshidabad district of West Bengal. Mr. Mondal, who belongs to a family of impoverished fishermen, relies on river fishing for his livelihood. The incident highlights issues of human rights violations, abuse of power, and its impact on the livelihood and dignity of vulnerable communities.
On November 8, 2024, at approximately 6:00 am, Mr. Mondal was fishing near Toltoli Ferighat with other local fishermen when he was summoned by Border Security Force (BSF) Camp Commander, Mr. Shibram. According to the victim, he approached the BSF personnel without provocation but was verbally abused and physically assaulted with a ruler stick. The BSF commander also confiscated Mr. Mondal’s Fishermen Card, marking it with red ink, potentially rendering it invalid.
The attack left Mr. Mondal with significant physical injuries and mental trauma, jeopardizing his livelihood and instilling fear within the fishing community.
The incident underscores a violation of fundamental rights guaranteed under the Indian Constitution, including:
Article 21: Protection of life and personal liberty.
Article 19: Freedom to practice any profession or carry out any occupation.
Article 22: Protection against arbitrary detention.
Such actions by the BSF personnel not only undermine the safety and dignity of fishermen but also disrupt their ability to earn a living without fear of harassment or violence.
A formal appeal has been made to the NHRC to intervene and address the situation. The demands include:
1. Impartial Investigation: Conduct an unbiased probe into the alleged assault and harassment, ensuring accountability for the BSF officer involved.
2. Police Accountability: Examine why local police failed to register a case, opting instead for a diary entry despite the gravity of the offense.
3. Protection for Victims and Witnesses: Ensure the safety of Mr. Mondal and witnesses to prevent further intimidation.
4. Medical Assistance and Compensation: Provide necessary medical aid and adequate compensation for Mr. Mondal’s physical and mental suffering.
5. Reinstatement of Fishermen Card: Restore Mr. Mondal’s card without restrictions, safeguarding his right to livelihood.
6. Respect for State-Issued Identification: Ensure that BSF personnel recognize the Fishermen Card issued by the West Bengal government.
7. BSF Jurisdiction: Limit BSF activities to the international border, preventing undue interference in civilian life within the village.
8. Safe Working Environment: Guarantee that local fishermen can work without fear of harassment or violence.
The incident raises critical questions about the conduct of security forces and their impact on civilian life in border areas. The appeal emphasizes the need for accountability and measures to prevent abuse of power by those entrusted with national security responsibilities.
The intervention of the NHRC is crucial to restore justice, uphold human rights, and ensure that Mr. Mondal and other fishermen can lead their lives with dignity and security.
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*Secretary, Banglar Manabadhikar Suraksha Mancha (MASUM)
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