New Delhi, August 11, 2024 — The Border Security Force (BSF) has apprehended eleven Bangladeshi nationals who were attempting to cross into India through various points along the international border. The detentions took place at border areas in West Bengal, Tripura, and Meghalaya. According to a BSF spokesperson, the detainees are currently under interrogation, and subsequent legal action will be pursued in coordination with state police authorities.
The South Bengal Frontier of the BSF, based in Kolkata, issued a comprehensive statement detailing the recent developments. The statement revealed that Additional Director General (ADG) Ravi Gandhi, who leads the BSF’s eastern command, held an operational conference on August 10. This meeting was convened in response to the ongoing unrest in Bangladesh and the impending Independence Day on August 15, which is anticipated to draw heightened attention to border security.
The statement provided a breakdown of the apprehensions: two individuals were intercepted at the West Bengal border, two at the Tripura border, and seven at the Meghalaya border. This distribution underscores the diverse and challenging nature of maintaining security across the 4,096-kilometer-long India-Bangladesh border, a region known for its complex terrain and cross-border movement. In the wake of these developments, ADG Ravi Gandhi emphasized the critical need for continued and enhanced cooperation with the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB). The BSF and BGB have been engaged in a series of flag meetings aimed at addressing and resolving mutual concerns, particularly those related to border management and security. The collaboration focuses on ensuring the protection of Indian nationals and safeguarding minority communities in Bangladesh from potential abuses.
The statement also highlighted the BSF’s ongoing efforts to improve border control measures, which include the implementation of advanced surveillance technologies and increased patrolling activities. These measures are designed to deter illegal crossings and enhance the effectiveness of border security operations. In addition to these operational enhancements, the Union Home Ministry has recently established a committee under the leadership of ADG Ravi Gandhi. This committee is tasked with investigating and addressing issues faced by minority communities in Bangladesh amid the current political instability. The committee’s mandate includes evaluating the impact of recent political changes and developing strategies to support affected communities.
The BSF remains steadfast in its commitment to fortify border security, facilitate smooth coordination with Bangladeshi counterparts, and effectively manage the evolving challenges at the India-Bangladesh border. The force continues to prioritize the protection of national interests and the well-being of individuals on both sides of the border.
