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

New Delhi, Sep 10 (PTI) 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.

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 of India 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 United Liberation Front of
Assam (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. MORE PTI