BSF Issues High Alert on India-Bangladesh Border Amidst Bangladesh Protests

Kolkata, 5th August 2024: The Border Security Force (BSF) has heightened its vigilance along the 4,096 km India-Bangladesh border following recent violent protests in Bangladesh. On Monday, the BSF issued a ‘high alert’ for all units stationed along the border.

Acting BSF Director General Daljit Singh Chaudhary, along with other senior commanders, conducted a review of the security situation in West Bengal. Arriving in Kolkata from Delhi around 10:30 am, Chaudhary assessed preparations in the North 24 Parganas district and the Sundarban area.

A senior BSF official stated that all field commanders have been instructed to ensure full deployment of personnel along the border. The BSF spokesperson for the South Bengal Frontier confirmed that the number of soldiers stationed at the border has been increased in response to the evolving situation in Bangladesh.

The BSF chief is expected to remain in the area for several days. According to a spokesperson from Delhi, while the current situation at the Bangladesh border is reported to be normal, the force remains on high alert. The BSF is closely monitoring developments to address any unforeseen circumstances.

In response to the escalating protests in Bangladesh, the BSF has canceled leaves for all personnel stationed along the border and has instructed all units to remain ‘fully alert’. A senior officer from the Eastern Command expressed concerns over potential increases in illegal border crossings and cross-border crimes. The BSF is maintaining communication with the Bangladesh Border Guard (BGB) to coordinate efforts.

All border stations (LCS) and integrated check posts (ICPs) are on high alert, and civilian movement in these areas has been restricted. Additionally, approximately 3,000 Indian students currently in Bangladesh are expected to return home soon.

The India-Bangladesh border is shared by five Indian states: West Bengal (2,217 km), Tripura (856 km), Meghalaya (443 km), Assam (262 km), and Mizoram (318 km). The heightened alert comes in the wake of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s resignation on Monday, following widespread protests against her government.

The BSF, responsible for securing India’s eastern border with its 87 battalions, continues to ensure the safety and security of the region amid these developments.