Allegations of torture and retaliatory charges by BSF personnel in North 24 Parganas

By A Representative

A serious allegation of human rights violation has emerged from the border village of Tarali under Swarupnagar Police Station in West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas district. Human rights organization Banglar Manabadhikar Suraksha Mancha (MASUM) has filed a complaint with the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), alleging that personnel from the 143 Battalion of the Border Security Force (BSF) brutally assaulted a Dalit civilian, Mr. Ranjit Ballav, on the night of 15 April 2025.

According to MASUM, Mr. Ballav was returning home when he was allegedly stopped near Sadhaner More and subjected to unprovoked physical assault by BSF jawans. His motorcycle and mobile phone were reportedly destroyed, and a sum of ₹2,630 was allegedly taken from him. When locals tried to intervene, they were purportedly threatened with false charges.

The next day, the BSF reportedly filed a counter FIR (No. 247/25), accusing Mr. Ballav and eight others — including his family members and local representatives — of criminal conduct. MASUM contends that this counter-case is fabricated and meant to protect the accused personnel from accountability following the original complaint (FIR No. 246/25) lodged by Mr. Ballav.

Despite the gravity of the accusations, MASUM states that no BSF personnel have been arrested or summoned in connection with Mr. Ballav’s complaint. In contrast, the civilian accused in the BSF’s counter-FIR were reportedly compelled to secure bail.

In a statement, Kirity Roy, Secretary of MASUM, said: “This is a clear case of abuse of power and an attempt to suppress a Dalit victim’s complaint through intimidation and false prosecution. The impunity with which security personnel operate in border areas must be addressed through independent investigation and judicial oversight.”

MASUM has urged the NHRC to initiate an independent inquiry, prosecute the implicated BSF officials under relevant criminal laws and the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, and ensure protection and compensation for the victim. The organization also insists that the trial be conducted in a civilian court, not a security forces tribunal, citing the alleged extrajudicial nature of the incident.

Gharapuri's discoveries: India finds a maritime past, ASI an app

By Gajanan Khergamker The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has once again demonstrated an extraordinary talent for mistaking administrative housekeeping for institutional achievement. At the very moment excavations at Gharapuri are yielding evidence that could fundamentally reshape our understanding of India's maritime past, the institution has chosen to celebrate the rollout of QR-enabled audio guides and GPS-supported navigation at its monuments. The contrast could not be starker.

Small Farm, big success: How an innovative couple built a model of sustainable farming

By Bharat Dogra In Sema, a remote village in Rajasthan's Rajsamand district, Bhagwati Lal and his wife Rekha share equal credit for creating a remarkable farm that has become an inspiration for villagers and visitors alike. Their achievement demonstrates how even a very small piece of land can provide a strong foundation for sustainable livelihoods while enhancing climate resilience and protecting the environment.

What's behind Columbia's president-elect speaking out against continuing the country’s peace agenda

By Laura Violeta Devia López There are just over three weeks left before Abelardo De La Espriella takes office as Colombia’s new president, despite the numerous allegations that cast a shadow over his election and, as usual, discredit the Colombian electoral system. The announcements already being made by Abelardo and his designated cabinet mark a significant change of course, not only for the Colombian people but also for the country’s place in the world.

Counterview

Search This Blog