A 25-year-old man from Paschimpara in West Tripura died on Tuesday morning, six days after sustaining serious injuries in a shooting incident near the Indo-Bangladesh border, sparking grief and protests in the locality.
The deceased, Rubel Mia, son of Nurul Amin, had been undergoing treatment after being critically injured on the night of May 20 near border pillars 176–177 between Ashabari and Paschimpara.
According to family members, Rubel was returning home after visiting a gym and was reportedly on his way to a mosque for evening prayers when the incident took place. Family members alleged that a jawan of the 49th Battalion of the Border Security Force (BSF) fired rubber bullets at him on suspicion of involvement in smuggling activities. According to their claims, one of the bullets struck Rubel in the lower back, causing severe injuries affecting his lungs and spine.
Following the incident, he was first taken to Boxanagar Social Health Centre and later shifted to GBP Hospital in Agartala for advanced treatment. Despite receiving medical care for nearly six days, he succumbed to his injuries at around 11:15 a.m. on Tuesday. He is survived by his wife and six-year-old daughter.
After the post-mortem examination, Rubel’s body was brought back to his hometown, where emotions ran high among family members and residents. The situation became tense as local people staged protests outside Kalamchoura police station, demanding a detailed investigation and action against those responsible.
Responding to the concerns, Sonamura Sub-Divisional Police Officer Shashimohan Debbarma assured family members that a proper inquiry would be initiated after submission of a formal complaint.
Residents of the area also alleged that local people frequently face harassment during border security operations, including searches and checks.
The incident has renewed public discussions regarding border security measures and raised concerns among residents over civilian safety in border areas.
