New Delhi:
In a complex and often contentious endeavor, the Indian Ministry of Home Affairs has reported that nearly 75% of the India-Bangladesh border has been fenced, despite ongoing challenges and tensions between the two nations. This extensive fencing project is a critical security measure aimed at combating cross-border crimes, smuggling, and trafficking, which have long plagued the region.
Recent disputes over the border fencing have strained relations between India and Bangladesh, highlighting the intricate and sensitive nature of border management. A significant portion of the border remains unfenced due to a myriad of practical and geographical challenges.
As of the latest update, 3,232.218 km out of the 4,096.7 km India-Bangladesh border have been fenced, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing security efforts. However, a substantial 864.482 km of the border is yet to be fenced, including a 174.514 km stretch that is deemed ‘non-feasible’ due to various obstacles.
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has emphasized that India adheres to all protocols and agreements with Bangladesh regarding border security and fencing. Despite this, several challenges persist, including land acquisition issues, objections from the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), a limited working season, and the difficult terrain that characterizes much of the border.
The primary objective of the fencing is to secure the border against cross-border criminal activities, smuggling, movement of criminals, and trafficking. India has conveyed its expectation to Bangladesh for a cooperative approach in combating these cross-border crimes, a message that comes at a time when tensions are running high.
The recent fencing work has been a point of contention, with Bangladesh expressing concerns over alleged violations of bilateral agreements. On January 12, Bangladesh’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned the Indian high commissioner in Dhaka to convey their deep concern over the unauthorized attempts to construct barbed wire fencing. India, however, maintains that it has observed all protocols and agreements in erecting the fencing.
To manage these tensions peacefully, sector commanders from the Border Security Force (BSF) and BGB have held meetings. These discussions aim to resolve border issues and ensure that any emerging problems are addressed promptly through dialogue. In a positive development, top-level talks between the directors-general of the BSF and BGB are scheduled for February 16-19 to address the ongoing border disputes.
