In response to recent unrest in Nepal, the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) and the West Bengal Police have increased vigilance along the India-Nepal border in Panitanki, West Bengal. This heightened security aims to prevent potential infiltration and maintain stability in the region.

Security measures have been intensified, including increased document checks and "naka checking" for both Indian and Nepalese citizens entering the country. Kiosks have been set up in Panitanki to facilitate document verification ahead of entry. A two-layered security system is in place, with the SSB conducting initial checks followed by the state police. According to a senior West Bengal police official, thorough checking is underway to prevent the entry of any anti-social elements.

The increased security measures follow violent anti-government protests in Nepal, which have disrupted trade and raised concerns in India. Blocked routes and stranded goods vehicles have been reported along the borders from north Bengal and Bihar to Uttar Pradesh. The protests were triggered by a government order blocking 26 social media platforms.

The SSB has apprehended approximately 60 individuals attempting to cross into India, suspected of escaping during jailbreaks amidst the unrest in Nepal. These individuals were caught at various border points in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal and have been handed over to the respective state police forces for questioning.

The SSB, which operates under the Ministry of Home Affairs, is responsible for guarding the 1,751 km long unfenced India-Nepal border on India's eastern side. The force has deployed around 50 battalions, consisting of approximately 60,000 personnel, across Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, West Bengal, and Sikkim.

The SSB is in communication with its Nepalese counterpart and has conducted joint patrols and independent flag marches in the border areas. Indian authorities have assured Nepal of full cooperation, allowing genuine nationals of both countries with valid identification to cross the border.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has appealed for peace in the northern districts bordering Nepal. The India-Nepal border at Panitanki in Darjeeling, West Bengal, is on high alert, with intensified police patrolling in the area.

In light of the situation, a high alert has been declared across the borders of West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Uttarakhand. Security forces have been instructed to maintain maximum alert and increase vigilance. Central agencies have issued security advisories cautioning that miscreants may exploit the unrest in Nepal to instigate unrest in neighboring Indian states.