Bangladeshi minor girl detained by BSF in North Dinajpur while fleeing persecution

A 15-year-old Bangladeshi girl was detained by the Border Security Force (BSF) in Chopra, North Dinajpur, on Tuesday night after she attempted to enter India to escape religious persecution. The girl, hailing from Panchagarh district in Bangladesh, was reportedly being harassed and threatened with abduction due to her family's affiliation with the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). Her family had been facing continuous threats because of their religious practices, which led the girl to flee her home in fear for her safety.

The girl's father, a medical representative, and her mother, both of whom are reported to be suffering from health issues, were unable to protect her from the threats. With no other means of protection, the girl decided to escape to India. She intended to visit relatives in Belakoba, Jalpaiguri, to seek refuge. Upon crossing the border, she was intercepted by BSF personnel, who detained her and handed her over to the Chopra police for further action.

The police in Chopra conducted an inquiry and confirmed the girl's identity. She was subsequently sent to a juvenile home under the jurisdiction of the district Child Welfare Committee (CWC) for her safety and well-being. The police stated that she would be presented in court on Wednesday as part of the legal process. The girl's case is being handled in accordance with standard child welfare procedures.

An investigation is underway by the Chopra police to determine the circumstances of her attempted border crossing and to ensure the girl's protection. The authorities are working with the relevant agencies to address the case, and further legal proceedings will follow as part of the process.