India, B'desh to ink pacts for transfer of terrorists

India and Bangladesh on Thursday decided to sign agreements, which will provide for transfer of terrorists and criminals, including sentenced persons, a move that could enable deportation of north-east insurgents taking shelter in the neighbouring country.

India and Bangladesh on Thursday decided to sign agreements, which will provide for transfer of terrorists and criminals, including sentenced persons, a move that could enable deportation of north-east insurgents taking shelter in the neighbouring country.

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The two countries also decided on a slew of other measures, including starting of border 'haats (markets)' and movement of containerised cargo by rail and water for bilateral trade.

In a joint statement issued at the conclusion of the four-day visit of Bangladesh Foreign Minister Dipu Moni, the two sides agreed to conclude the mutual legal assistance treaty on criminal matters.

The decision, which was arrived at during talks between Moni and External Affairs Minister S M Krishna, will enable transfer of terrorists and criminals wanted in either country. In India's context, it will provide a legal framework for seeking deportation of northeast insurgents who take shelter in Bangladesh.

The two countries also decided to conclude an agreement of transfer of sentenced persons. This pact will also facilitate deportation of insurgents who have been arrested and sentenced in Bangladesh like ULFA leader Anup Chetia.

Chetia is set to be released from prison in Bangladesh soon and India has already made a request that he should be handed over.