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Elderly Farmer Rescued After Alleged Abduction to Bangladesh

A 77-year-old farmer from Cachar, Ranjit Das, was allegedly abducted into Bangladesh while working in his fields. He was rescued later the same day, but the circumstances surrounding his injuries remain unclear. His brother witnessed the incident, claiming that a group of individuals forcibly took Ranjit away. The local community is relieved by his return, but many questions linger about the incident. Authorities are hopeful that further details will emerge as the investigation unfolds.
 

Incident Overview

Cachar SSP Sanjib Kumar Saikia (left of centre) with BSF personnel and Ranjit Das (centre) following his return. (AT Photo)


Silchar, June 16: Ranjit Das, a 77-year-old farmer from Cachar, was reportedly abducted into Bangladesh while tending to his fields near Kinnarkhal village on Tuesday morning. He was safely returned to India around 10 PM the same day, although he sustained injuries during the incident, the details of which remain unclear.


Cachar SSP Sanjib Kumar Saikia confirmed the abduction, stating that the 170 Battalion of the BSF coordinated with the Border Guard Bangladesh to facilitate Das's return.


"The farmer was taken into Bangladesh, and the 170 Battalion BSF intervened with the Border Guard Bangladesh to ensure his safe return," Saikia explained.


Upon his return, Das expressed gratitude towards the government for their prompt action but refrained from discussing the nature of his injuries. Authorities are optimistic that further information will surface as the investigation continues and Das recuperates.


The incident occurred shortly after the border gate opened at 7 AM, allowing local farmers to access agricultural lands beyond the fencing. Approximately 16 to 17 farmers were present when the alleged abduction took place.


Kalimohan Das, Ranjit's younger brother, claimed to have witnessed the event, stating that a group of individuals approached the farmers while they were ploughing.


"While we were ploughing, the equipment malfunctioned, causing a delay. Suddenly, a few individuals appeared and seized him. Before we could react, they forcibly took him away," Kalimohan recounted. He also mentioned that the assailants threatened Ranjit before dragging him off.


Ranjit's return has brought relief to his family and the local community, who were anxious throughout the day following the abduction. However, with the elderly farmer yet to disclose details about his experience and the circumstances surrounding his injuries still unclear, many questions about the incident remain unanswered.