By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, May 1: Inspector General of the Border Security Force (BSF), Meghalaya Frontier, OP Upadhyay, has confirmed that the BSF has intensified its security measures and placed troops on high alert along the India-Bangladesh border in Meghalaya, especially in the wake of the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam and last year’s unrest in Bangladesh.
He asserted that enhanced security and vigilance are standard protocols for any incident occurring within the country or nearby regions.
The BSF IG emphasized that the force maintains round-the-clock vigilance, specialising in night operations and having further strengthened its night dominance and surveillance capabilities. He also reviewed and adjusted its manpower deployment to ensure optimal coverage.
Current security measures include the deployment of additional personnel and enhanced surveillance equipment. There is no formal proposal to deploy more forces, but if the need arises, they are prepared and will not face any shortage, he said.
Upadhyay assured that the situation along the border is currently under control. He highlighted inter-agency cooperation, stating that 24 checkpoints are jointly operated by the BSF and Meghalaya Police to maintain effective surveillance and law enforcement.
This collaboration has led to a 90% reduction in cross-border movement of Bangladeshi nationals in the Garo Hills region, he pointed out. Upadhyay said he has no information about Indian insurgent groups, particularly the Meghalaya-based Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC), operating from Bangladesh.
He clarified that the BSF has not received any intelligence suggesting that such groups are operating from or through Meghalaya’s border areas.
However, he reiterated that there is no credible information suggesting the presence or activity of such insurgents near Meghalaya’s border.
Regarding sightings of drones near the international border on the Meghalaya side, Upadhyay noted that while some incidents had been reported in the media, thorough investigations revealed that in a few cases, they were civilian drones used by tourists.
He confirmed that any drone-related information is promptly taken up with the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and that no unauthorised drones will be allowed to operate.
Approximately 42 kilometers of the Indo-Bangladesh border in Meghalaya remain unfenced due to the unavailability of land, Upadhyay said, adding that the BSF is working closely with the state government to address the issue, and Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma is actively involved in the process.
He expressed hope that the obstacles in this matter will be resolved soon.
On the issue of cross-border smuggling, Upadhyay said that such activities are currently under control and have shown a declining trend. He reiterated the BSF’s hope of overcoming the current challenges soon.