Hate on Social Media, Oranges at the Border: Assam Residents Baffled

Amid persistent anti-India rhetoric from hardline elements in Bangladesh, the continuation of agricultural exports from India—particularly oranges—has triggered sharp reactions in Assam’s Sribhumi district, with local residents expressing anger over what they describe as “unwarranted goodwill” towards a hostile neighbour.

In recent months, anti-India factions in Bangladesh have repeatedly posted provocative and abusive content on social media, including threats related to India’s northeastern region. Public resentment in border areas has further intensified following the killing of Dipu Chandra Das, allegedly without provocation—an incident that has deeply disturbed local communities.

Despite the deteriorating atmosphere, orange exports through the Kalibari Ghat border point in Sribhumi district are reportedly continuing. The exports are allegedly being carried out by Congress member Badrul Haque, who has long been engaged in exporting oranges to Bangladesh at comparatively low prices. The development has raised serious concerns among local residents, who question whether commercial interests are being prioritised over national sentiment and security considerations.

Tensions escalated when content creator Sujan Deb Roy staged a protest at the border, openly questioning the rationale behind supplying agricultural produce to Bangladesh at a time when anti-India narratives and hostility are being openly propagated across the border.

Following the protest, Sribhumi police detained Deb Roy and held him at the police station for nearly five hours. He was later released after the intervention of Assam Minister Krishnendu Paul, according to sources.

“I was asked to delete the post or edit the video I had shared on my social media platforms. I do not agree with the view that India should continue any form of trade with neighbouring Bangladesh in light of the recent atrocities there and the hatred being directed towards Indians. In my opinion, such actions do not warrant either respect or trade,” Roy said while speaking to the media.

Describing his detention, Roy added, “I was detained for nearly five hours, after which I was asked to sign a bond and then released. Police officials told me that trade has not been banned by the Government of India and suggested that it would not be appropriate for me to comment further on the issue.”

Roy further stated, “I condemn the mob lynching of Dipu Chandra Das. However, the hatred being imposed on us is unacceptable to me.”

The incident has triggered a wider debate across the district, with many residents questioning why exports to Bangladesh continue uninterrupted even as anti-India sentiments intensify across the border.

The perceived “Bangladesh-friendly” approach of certain individuals has left large sections of the local population deeply unsettled, fuelling demands for a review of cross-border trade under the prevailing circumstances.

Also Read: Assam: Gauripur youth held over controversial social media post backing Bangladesh incident