Villagers in Jayantipur, West Bengal, report movement restrictions, harassment by BSF

By A Representative 

Residents of Jayantipur village in North 24 Parganas, West Bengal, have raised concerns about restrictions on their movement and alleged harassment by the Border Security Force (BSF) stationed in the area. The village, located near the Indo-Bangladesh border, has been fenced off by BSF personnel, reportedly isolating around 30% of its population from essential services and the rest of the community.

The village, with a population of approximately 4,500, predominantly consists of minority OBC Muslim and Dalit (Scheduled Caste) communities. According to local reports, the fencing, constructed with bamboo and trees, was neither sanctioned by the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) nor carried out in compliance with official procedures. Villagers allege they were compelled to participate in the construction, raising concerns about potential violations of labor rights.

Residents behind the fencing reportedly face daily challenges, including restrictions on basic activities like visiting neighbors, practicing religious customs, or hosting relatives. Permission letters, issued by local Panchayat authorities and approved by BSF personnel, are reportedly required for such activities. For example, a permission letter dated November 8, 2024, was needed for two individuals to visit their relatives in the village.

The restrictions have reportedly led to broader social and psychological impacts, particularly on the youth. Families claim that young women face stigmatization due to their location in a militarized zone, while children are said to experience distress from the constant presence of armed personnel.

Villagers also reported an incident in April 2024, when a family living behind the fencing was accused of smuggling activities. Despite multiple searches yielding no evidence, the family has allegedly been subjected to harassment and remains homeless.

Efforts to address the issues have reportedly been made, including meetings with BSF officials and complaints lodged with the District Magistrate and Sub-Divisional Officer. However, villagers claim no resolution has been achieved.

Residents are now urging authorities to relocate the BSF post to a non-residential area, ensure free movement within Indian territory, and address their grievances. They are also calling for an investigation into the legality of the fencing and the reported use of forced labor during its construction.

Kirity Roy, Secretary of Banglar Manabadhikar Suraksha Mancha (MASUM), has submitted a formal appeal to the National Human Rights Commission, requesting intervention to safeguard the villagers' constitutional rights and restore normalcy in the area.

The BSF and local administration have yet to issue a response to these allegations.