India has assured Bangladesh that it remains committed to observing all protocols and agreements concerning border security measures, including fencing along the shared boundary.
This assurance was conveyed on Monday (January 13) when the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) summoned Bangladesh's acting High Commissioner Md Nurul Islam to the South Block in New Delhi.
The meeting followed Bangladesh's summoning of Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma a day earlier, where deep concerns were raised over the recent activities of India’s Border Security Force (BSF) along the border.
According to an MEA statement, India reaffirmed its dedication to maintaining a crime-free border and addressing cross-border issues such as smuggling, criminal activities, and trafficking. Measures including barbed wire fencing, border lighting, and the use of technical devices were described as essential steps for enhancing security.
India emphasized its expectation that Bangladesh would adhere to prior agreements and collaborate in combating border crimes effectively.
Bangladesh's Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin had earlier urged India to ensure its authorities refrained from any "provocative actions" that might escalate tensions along the border. He highlighted concerns over unauthorized construction of barbed wire fencing by BSF, which he argued undermines the spirit of cooperation and friendly relations between the two neighbors.
Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma acknowledged the importance of understanding between the two border forces—India’s BSF and Bangladesh’s Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB). He expressed optimism about the effective implementation of joint strategies to combat cross-border crimes.
The ongoing concerns are expected to be addressed in the upcoming director general-level talks between BGB and BSF, which both sides hope will foster greater cooperation and mitigate tensions.
The India-Bangladesh border, one of the longest international boundaries in the world, has frequently been a focal point of disputes, particularly concerning security and cross-border movements. Both nations continue to engage in dialogue to resolve such challenges and strengthen their bilateral relationship.
