Amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following the Pahalgam attack, security has been significantly heightened along the Bangladesh border. This move comes in response to growing concerns about potential infiltration and cross-border activities.

Heightened Vigil and Security Measures

The Border Security Force (BSF) has enhanced its surveillance and vigilance along the 4,096 km border shared by West Bengal, Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram with Bangladesh. Some stretches of this border remain unfenced, making them vulnerable to infiltration and smuggling. Security officials have noted an increase in infiltration attempts from Bangladesh, particularly after the ouster of the Sheikh Hasina government in July of last year.

BSF sources indicate that surveillance has been intensified to prevent any attempts by anti-India elements from Bangladesh to carry out untoward incidents. There are fears that Pakistan or terrorist organizations may exploit Bangladeshi territory, especially given the perceived closeness of the interim government led by Mohammad Yunus to Pakistan.

Precautionary Measures and Deployment

In response to the escalating tensions, the Bangladesh Police have issued a nationwide directive to heighten vigilance and security, especially in border regions and areas with Hindu populations. This directive includes a series of precautionary measures aimed at maintaining law and order and preventing communal unrest. Law enforcement agencies have been instructed to intensify security in border areas to prevent provocations or activities that could incite instability. Additionally, police forces are focused on ensuring the safety of Hindu citizens and their properties to prevent potential attacks or acts of vandalism.

Night curfews have been imposed along bordering areas, and state security forces have been deployed in border villages to prevent infiltration and curb unwanted activities. In Tripura, Chief Minister Manik Saha held a high-level meeting with senior security, intelligence, and civil officials to discuss enhanced surveillance along the India-Bangladesh border.

Technological Enhancements and Monitoring

The BSF is utilizing the latest electronic gadgets to intensify surveillance along the India-Bangladesh border. Inspector General (IG) O.P. Upadhyay of BSF's Meghalaya frontiers stated that vigilance has been strengthened, with troops maintaining the highest level of surveillance around the clock. Senior BSF officials are also supervising intensive patrolling along the frontiers.

Bangladesh's Response

Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) has also intensified security measures along a 70-kilometer stretch of the Jashore border and a 76-kilometer stretch of the Rajshahi border. BGB members have increased patrols, and the force has been placed on high alert to prevent illegal entry from India. Announcements have been made in border areas, advising residents to work on agricultural fields between 8 am and 5 pm and to avoid gathering in groups near the border.

Concerns and Apprehensions

Recent events have heightened concerns. Police in Assam's Sribhumi district recovered a suspicious drone, raising fears that it could be used for nefarious purposes. Additionally, there are reports that the Indian Border Security Force (BSF) pushed 80 Indian nationals into Bangladesh, claiming they were Bangladeshis.

Stability and Vigilance

Despite the tensions, BSF officials in West Bengal have stated that the eastern border with Bangladesh and Nepal remains relatively stable. The BSF is actively combating the spread of misinformation that could cause unnecessary panic or disruption in the border regions. While maintaining a state of alert and round-the-clock monitoring, the BSF in South Bengal is prepared to address any potential security challenges.

The beefed-up security measures along the Bangladesh border reflect the heightened sensitivity and vigilance in the region amid the ongoing conflict between India and Pakistan. Authorities are taking comprehensive steps to prevent infiltration, maintain law and order, and ensure the safety and security of citizens in the border areas.