This article discusses the complexities of border fencing between India and Bangladesh, highlighting the ongoing disputes and the challenges in implementing a comprehensive border management system.
The India-Bangladesh Border:
Length: 4,096 km, the longest border India shares with any country.
States Involved: Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Tripura, and West Bengal.
Guarding Force: Border Security Force (BSF) operates through six frontiers along the border.
Fencing Status and Challenges:
Approximately 78% (3196.705 km) of the border is fenced.
Uneven Fencing: Fencing coverage varies significantly across different frontiers.
Some areas have over 80% fencing, while others have less than 50%.
Reasons for Disparities: Challenging terrain (e.g., riverine areas, chars), habitations close to the border, and resistance from border populations who fear losing access to their lands.
The South Bengal Frontier, for example, has a large riverine stretch (Ichamati and Padma rivers), making fencing difficult.
Specific Challenges: The article mentions difficulties in constructing fencing in certain stretches due to geographical challenges and local resistance.
Border Fencing Protocol:
1975 Joint Guidelines: Prohibits permanent or temporary border security forces or armed personnel within 150 yards of the identifiable boundary line.
No permanent posts are allowed until final demarcation.
Fencing within 150 Yards: Requires mutual agreement between both countries if fencing is needed within this zone due to settlements.
Recent Disputes: Disputes have arisen where the BSF claims that the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) agreed to fencing previously (before August 2024) but are now retracting.
Alternative Security Measures:
Technological Solutions: In unfenced areas, the BSF uses technological measures like floodlights, cameras, and drones to monitor the border.
Current Situation and Future Outlook:
The Indian government is pushing for the completion of fencing along the remaining stretches.
Despite political rhetoric, the West Bengal government agrees on the need for border fencing.
Despite disputes, border guards from both sides have maintained restraint and engaged in talks.
The BSF has increased patrolling and held numerous meetings with the BGB.
Upcoming Talks: The issue of border fencing is likely to be a key topic in upcoming Director General-level talks between the BSF and BGB.
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