Man dies 6 days after BSF ‘firing’, protests erupt in Sepahijala

Agartala: Tension gripped Tripura’s Sepahijala district following the death of Rubel Miah, 30, who succumbed to injuries allegedly caused by a BSF firing incident near the Paschimpara border in Boxanagar.The incident occurred on May 20 night near India-Bangladesh pillars 176 and 177 along the Ashabari-Paschimpara border. According to his family, Rubel was on his way to offer prayers at the Uttarpara Mosque, located close to the border, when he was allegedly mistaken for a smuggler by a BSF jawan.He was reportedly shot in the back with a rubber bullet, sustaining critical injuries to his back and lungs. Neighbours rushed him to the Boxanagar Social Health Centre, but due to the severity of his condition, he was later referred to Agartala Govt Medical College for advanced treatment.After battling for six days, Rubel passed away on Tuesday night, leaving behind his wife and six-year-old daughter. His death has triggered protests in Boxanagar, with residents and family members demanding a thorough investigation and accountability from the authorities.Sonamura sub-divisional police officer Shashi Mohan Debbarma said a comprehensive probe would be initiated upon receiving a formal complaint. Meanwhile, concerns are mounting among locals over the conduct of BSF personnel stationed along the border.Residents have accused BSF officials of frequent frisking, phone inspections, and physical assaults in the area. Calls for justice and a fair inquiry continue to grow amid widespread unrest.