The Border Security Force (BSF) of India recently attempted to construct a barbed-wire fence along the Haripara border in Dahagram Union of Lalmonirhat district without notifying the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB).

This unauthorised construction, which violates international border laws prohibiting structures within 150 yards of the zero line, prompted immediate intervention from the BGB.

Over two consecutive days, Tuesday and Wednesday, the BGB successfully halted the BSF’s construction efforts.

In response, Indian authorities deployed a significant number of BSF personnel armed with heavy weapons to the border, escalating tensions.

The BGB also heightened its alert status, leading to widespread fear among the residents of Dahagram Union, who are surrounded by the Indian border on all sides.

Local sources revealed that members of the Bhim Camp of the 6 Raninagar BSF Battalion in Cooch Behar, India, brought a large quantity of barbed wire and construction materials to the site on Tuesday night.

The following day, they began building the fence along the zero line between sub-pillars 23 and 28 near the main border pillar DAMP 8.

Despite the BGB's objections, the BSF initially persisted with the construction. However, following a strong protest from the BGB and its strategic positioning, the BSF was eventually compelled to halt its activities. The situation remains tense, with both forces maintaining a vigilant presence at the border.

Lieutenant Colonel Selim Al Din, Commander of the Rangpur 51 Battalion of BGB, confirmed that a flag meeting was held between the two countries' battalions on Wednesday evening. The construction has been paused, and the BGB continues to ensure the safety and security of the Dahagram Union's residents, with intensified border patrols in place.

BDST: 1121 HRS, AUG 22, 2024
MN/SMS