India has summoned Bangladesh's Acting High Commissioner over border security and fencing issues, escalating tensions over alleged BSF violations and border management disputes over barbed wire fencing. India insists on fencing to prevent crimes and control animal movement, while Bangladesh views it as a violation of the 1975 Joint India-Bangladesh Border Agreement.
Copyright infringement not intended
Picture Courtesy: THE HINDU
India summoned Bangladesh's Acting High Commissioner over border security and fencing issues, escalating tensions over alleged BSF violations and border management disputes over barbed wire fencing.
The Border Security Force (BSF) in collaboration with the Central Road Works Department started constructing a single-row fence in Malda’s Kaliachak block. Bangladesh’s Border Guard (BGB) intervened, raising objections, but construction continued after clarifications were provided.
Similarly, in Cooch Behar’s Mekhliganj, local villagers, supported by the BSF, started erecting a fence to prevent cattle from crossing over from Bangladesh. This move was met with resistance from the BGB.
The 1975 Joint India-Bangladesh Border Guidelines state that no defense structure can be built within 150 yards of the international border.
This has been a point of friction because India sees fencing as a measure to control illegal cross-border activities, while Bangladesh views it as a violation of the guidelines.
India believes that fencing, especially single-row fencing (SRF), is crucial for preventing cross-border crimes such as cattle smuggling and human trafficking. It is also important in controlling the movement of animals.
The fencing is not designed as a defence mechanism like concrete walls or bunkers, but as a way to curb illegal activities. India argues that areas with no fencing are hotspots for trans-border crimes.
India and Bangladesh share 4,096.7 km. of border, the largest land border India shares with any of its neighbours.
The border is highly complex, including rivers, hills, and populated areas, making it difficult to follow the 150-yard rule.
Some villagers object to fencing, particularly in areas where their homes are situated close to the border.
Over 900 km of the border is riverine, making fencing impossible in those areas. The BSF’s water wing secures these parts of the border.
|
In areas where fencing is not possible due to terrain or the presence of settlements, India negotiates with Bangladesh to allow fencing near the zero line. Special gates are installed for residents to move freely, and BSF soldiers are instructed to open these gates in emergencies. |
Bangladesh objects to the installation of smart fencing, which includes CCTV cameras and electronic surveillance systems.
Bangladesh argues that such fencing, especially when placed close to the border, gives India the ability to monitor its territory. India, however, sees this as necessary for security and to reduce illegal activities along the porous border.
As of 2023, approximately 3,141 km of the India-Bangladesh border has been fenced out of the total 4,096.7 km. The fencing project is 81.5% complete in West Bengal.
However, some areas remain unfenced due to objections from villagers, challenging terrain, or negotiations with Bangladesh. Over 900 km of the border is riverine, where fencing is not feasible.
The dispute over fencing is important for border security, bilateral relations, and the well-being of residents living near the border.
India insists on fencing to prevent illegal activities, however, Bangladesh's objections reflect concerns about sovereignty, security, and the impact on local communities. The issue requires urgent attention and resolution for a peaceful border and sustainable border management.
Must Read Articles:
Source:
|
PRACTICE QUESTION Q.How do issues related to the Rohingya refugee crisis affect the relationship between India and Bangladesh? (150 words) |
© 2025 iasgyan. All right reserved