In anticipation of Independence Day, security measures along the India-Bangladesh border in Meghalaya have been significantly heightened. The Border Security Force (BSF) has launched "Operation Alert" from August 10 to August 16, a proactive initiative aimed at ensuring foolproof security in the days leading up to and immediately following the national holiday. This operation is being carried out in close coordination with the Meghalaya State Police and other law enforcement agencies to create a robust security grid.
The primary objective of "Operation Alert" is to intensify security along the border, preventing any potential disruptions by subversive elements. This includes enhanced area domination, round-the-clock patrolling, and surprise checks at various locations. Riverine patrols have also been increased to secure vulnerable routes along the border. Special emphasis is being placed on curbing illegal activities such as cattle smuggling, contraband movement, and illegal crossings. Vulnerable routes, both land and riverine, are under constant surveillance using coordinated ground and water patrols, night vision equipment, and mobile patrol teams.
Additional troops have been deployed to forward border locations, and senior officers from the BSF's Frontier Headquarters and Sector Headquarters are on the ground, directly supervising the operation. O P Upadhyay, Inspector General (IG) of the BSF Frontier Headquarters in Shillong, is personally overseeing the security arrangements. He emphasized the BSF's commitment to safeguarding national security during the festive season and preventing disruptions by inimical forces.
The heightened security measures come in the wake of recent incidents involving Bangladeshi nationals along the border. In one instance, a group of armed Bangladeshi men allegedly committed a robbery near the border, leading to the arrest of several individuals, including a Bangladeshi Police constable. In another incident, a group of Bangladeshi nationals crossed into Meghalaya and attacked a local shopkeeper, prompting a joint operation by the BSF and Meghalaya Police.
The India-Bangladesh border in Meghalaya spans 443 km, with some stretches remaining unfenced due to challenging terrain, including water bodies, forests, and mountains. These unfenced areas are particularly vulnerable to cross-border activities. While border fencing work is underway in some portions, these gaps remain a concern.
In addition to "Operation Alert," the BSF has also been conducting joint patrols with the Umkiang Police Patrol Post (PPP) along the Indo-Bangladesh border in East Jaintia Hills. These joint operations focus on key vulnerable stretches to prevent illegal cross-border activities and maintain a constant security presence. The BSF is also working with Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) to conduct coordinated patrols and joint watches to curb hostile activities.
The Meghalaya government has also taken steps to enhance security throughout the state. Police officials have reiterated their commitment to ensuring peaceful celebrations and have deployed patrol parties in various parts of the state capital. Vehicle checks have been intensified, and police outposts along the border have been asked to maintain extra vigilance.
These comprehensive security measures reflect a concerted effort by the BSF, state police, and other law enforcement agencies to maintain peace and security along the India-Bangladesh border in Meghalaya during the Independence Day period. The increased vigilance aims to deter any potential threats and ensure that the celebrations can take place without disruption.
