In light of recent developments in Bangladesh, the Border Security Force (BSF) has declared an operational alert along the 4,096-km India-Bangladesh border in preparation for the 76th Republic Day. The ‘Operation Alert’ exercise began on Wednesday and will continue until January 31, according to a press release from the BSF’s Eastern Command. The initiative includes enhanced security drills in forward border areas.

The BSF statement highlighted that troops would verify operational protocols to handle border contingencies and engage with local communities through reconciliation programs. Additional Director General (Eastern Command), Ravi Gandhi, visited the South Bengal Frontier to assess the preparedness of border personnel. He directed increased vigilance, particularly in areas with riverine borders and unfenced sections.

As part of ‘Operation Alert,’ the BSF plans to intensify patrolling and other security measures along the India-Bangladesh border. This move comes amid ongoing tensions related to border fencing, particularly in the Sukdevpur area of Malda, West Bengal. While there have been no major incidents, reports of disputes over fence construction have surfaced. West Bengal accounts for the largest share of the border, spanning 2,216 km.

Villagers on both sides of the border have occasionally clashed over fencing issues, prompting the BSF to adopt proactive measures at the zero line for improved border management. Border security forces from both nations have also conducted multiple meetings at the frontier and sector levels to address and ease tensions in the region.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from PTI