Government Pushes for Completion of Border Fencing Amid Security Concerns
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has informed the Lok Sabha that 865 km of the India-Bangladesh border remains unfenced, raising concerns over illegal migration, smuggling, and cross-border crimes. While a significant portion of the 4,096-km-long border has been secured with barbed-wire fencing, challenges in land acquisition, difficult terrain, and local opposition have slowed progress in certain regions.
Current Status of Border Fencing
📌 Total India-Bangladesh Border: 4,096 km
📌 Fenced Border: Approx. 3,231 km
📌 Unfenced Border: 865 km
📌 States Affected: West Bengal, Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram
The MHA emphasized that the government remains committed to completing the remaining fencing at the earliest to ensure national security and territorial integrity.
Challenges in Border Fencing
The government cited several hurdles in completing the fencing along the remaining 865 km, including:
🔹 Difficult Terrain: Several parts of the border, especially in Meghalaya, Mizoram, and Assam, pass through hilly, forested, and riverine areas, making fencing extremely challenging.
🔹 Land Acquisition Issues: Some stretches require land acquisition, leading to delays due to negotiations with local communities and state authorities.
🔹 Opposition from Border Residents: In some areas, local residents have raised concerns about restricted movement, trade, and access to agricultural lands near the border.
🔹 Bilateral Concerns with Bangladesh: Diplomatic discussions with Dhaka are ongoing to resolve disputes in certain sections, ensuring fencing does not affect bilateral relations.
Government’s Plan to Strengthen Border Security
To address these challenges, the MHA and Border Security Force (BSF) are implementing alternative security measures, such as:
✅ Smart Fencing: High-tech laser and infrared-based fencing is being tested in areas where physical barriers are impractical.
✅ Improved Surveillance: Installation of CCTV cameras, night-vision drones, and motion sensors to monitor unfenced areas.
✅ Increased BSF Deployment: The Border Security Force (BSF) has strengthened its presence in sensitive regions to curb illegal activities.
✅ Boosting Indo-Bangla Cooperation: India and Bangladesh continue to enhance border management strategies through joint patrols and intelligence-sharing.
Security Implications of an Unfenced Border
The unfenced sections of the India-Bangladesh border pose several security risks, including:
🔺 Illegal Migration: Unregulated border crossings have led to concerns over illegal immigration, particularly in West Bengal and Assam.
🔺 Smuggling Activities: The region has seen an increase in the smuggling of cattle, drugs, arms, and fake currency.
🔺 Terrorist Infiltration Risks: Open border areas can be exploited by extremist groups for illegal movement and logistics support.
Opposition’s Stand & Parliamentary Debate
During the Lok Sabha session, opposition parties questioned the government on the delay in fencing completion and its impact on national security. MHA officials responded by emphasizing the complexity of the project and assured that fencing efforts would be expedited.
Conclusion: A Work in Progress
Despite terrain, diplomatic, and logistical challenges, the Indian government remains determined to secure the entire India-Bangladesh border. The implementation of smart technology and diplomatic cooperation with Bangladesh is expected to enhance border security in the coming years.
