Situation in Cachar normal but tension prevails

Agartala, Aug 11 (UNI) The situation in Harinagar and Kinokhal areas of Barak Valley was reported to be by and large normal today after yesterday's exchange of fire between BSF and BDR where two Indian women were killed.

Speaking to UNI, the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of BSF, Tripura, Cachar and Mizoram Frontier (TCM) J C Pandey said though the situation was normal, tension prevailed in the area bordering Bangladesh in South Asom.

''Unconfirmed reports received here said there are 8 casualties on the Bangladesh side. Four of them are BDR personnel and others are civilians in the retaliatory firing by our jawans,'' DIG Pandey said. The BDR resorted to unprovoked firing on the Indian side since August 9 which resulted in the death of two women and injury to a child. The BSF immediately retaliated in self-defence which resuled in the death of 8 Bangladeshis.

Asked whether the BSF had strenghtened their forces on the Tripura and Cachar sector, the DIG replied in the negative. ''We are fully equipped to counter any eventuality from across the border.

However, we are maintaining a close watch on the overall situation, particularly across the border,'' Mr Pandey said.

UNI PD PL RD 1347