India, Bangladesh to ink pacts for transfer of terrorists

India and Bangladesh today 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 SM 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.

Krishna and Moni also decided to sign an agreement on combating international terrorism, organized crime and illegal drug trafficking.

They directed officials to meet and discuss technical and other parameters to finalise an agreement for sharing of the waters of Teesta river.

The two leaders agreed to immediately commence Joint Hydrological Observations on the river. They also agreed to undertake bank protection works, dredging of Ichhamati river and minor irrigation/drinking water schemes on Feni river.

India agreed to provide at least 100 MW to Bangladesh on a priority basis. It will also undertake a feasibility study on power grid inter-connectivity for transmission lines to Bangladesh.
    
The two countries discussed designating Ashuganj as a new port of call under the Inland Water Transit and Trade Agreement as well as the use of Chittagong port by India.

Bangladesh side agreed to provide access to Ashuganj Port to facilitate transportation of the Over Dimensional Consignments for the Palatana Power Project in Tripura.

India agreed in principle to provide a Line of Credit for railway projects and supply of locomotives, coaches and buses.
   
India also offered to take up construction of Akhaura- Agartala railway link.