Human rights group alleges brutal assault and cover-up by BSF in West Bengal

By A Representative

Banglar Manabadhikar Suraksha Mancha (MASUM), a human rights organization, has filed a complaint with the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) alleging a severe violation of human rights by the Border Security Force (BSF) against a resident of North 24 Parganas, West Bengal.

According to the complaint, signed by Mr. Kirity Roy, Secretary, MASUM, the victim, Mr. Sahabuiddin Biswas, 51, was allegedly shot at point-blank range by BSF personnel on March 9, 2025, while on his way to the Ichhamati River for fishing. MASUM claims that BSF officers Inspector Vikash, ASI/GD Kuldeep Singh, and CT Subhankar Roy verbally abused Mr. Biswas before CT Subhankar Roy fired a shot that severely injured him, causing permanent damage to his right eye and endangering his left eye.

The complaint further alleges that BSF personnel interfered with Mr. Biswas's medical treatment at AIIMS Hospital, Kalyani, pressuring doctors to discharge him without a crucial operation. MASUM states that when Mr. Biswas's daughter, Ruksana Khatun, questioned the decision, she was threatened by BSF.

Adding to the gravity of the situation, MASUM claims that BSF falsely implicated Mr. Biswas in a drug smuggling case. He was arrested by Gaighata police under alleged pressure from BSF, despite his critical condition. Mr. Biswas is currently hospitalized at Regional Institute of Opthalmology, Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata, where doctors have reportedly stated that he has lost sight in both eyes.

MASUM's complaint highlights the following key allegations:

* Brutal Assault: The alleged unprovoked shooting of Mr. Biswas by BSF personnel.

* Medical Negligence and Interference: BSF's alleged interference in Mr. Biswas's medical treatment at AIIMS, Kalyani, leading to his premature discharge.

* False Implication: The allegation that BSF falsely implicated Mr. Biswas in a drug smuggling case to cover up their actions.

* Police Inaction: MASUM's claim that complaints filed by Mr. Biswas's daughter with local police authorities have been ignored.

MASUM has urged the NHRC to:

* Initiate an independent investigation into the incident.

* Direct the West Bengal State Government and BSF to provide immediate medical care and compensation to Mr. Biswas.

* Ensure the criminal prosecution of the BSF personnel involved.

* Provide protection to Mr. Biswas's family.

* Seek explanations from AIIMS, Kalyani, for the alleged denial of medical treatment.

The incident raises serious concerns about the conduct of security forces and the alleged denial of justice. MASUM's complaint underscores the need for a thorough and impartial investigation to ensure accountability and uphold human rights.

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