BGB-BSF hold sector commander meeting to address border issues

A sector commander-level meeting between Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and India's Border Security Force (BSF) was held on Wednesday in Chapainawabganj, focused on resolving key issues related to border security and cooperation. 

The meeting, held at Sonamasjid border outpost conference room, concluded in a friendly atmosphere.

According to a press release issued by 59th BGB Battalion, both sides agreed to restrict access within 150 yards of the border to farmers only, aiming to enhance security and minimize unauthorized activities.  

Discussions also emphasized addressing border-related challenges through dialogue, preventing trespassing and drug smuggling, and avoiding the spread of misinformation or rumors regarding border incidents. 

The BGB delegation was led by Rajshahi Sector Commander Colonel Imran Ibne A. Rouf, while the BSF team was headed by DIG Arun Kumar Gautam of the Malda Sector. Other officials, including Lt Col Golam Kibria of the 59 BGB Battalion and Suraj Singh of the 119 BSF Battalion, were also present.  

The meeting follows recent tensions between the two forces. Disputes arose after the BSF allegedly began constructing a barbed wire fence near zero line at Chouka border on January 7, and incidents of Indian nationals felling mango trees in Bangladesh near the Chouka and Kiranganj borders on January 18. 

Both sides expressed a commitment to resolving such issues through continued communication and collaboration.