By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Dec 1: The BSF Meghalaya has stated that fundamentalist activities in Bangladesh, particularly in areas close to Meghalaya, have increased over the last one and a half years, and that certain locations along the state’s border with Assam remain sensitive.
BSF Meghalaya Frontier IG, OP Upadhyay, however, assured that the force is closely monitoring the situation and remains fully alert. “We will take all necessary measures to counter the ill effects of this phenomenon, and we are coordinating with intelligence and other security agencies,” he said, adding that the issue will be addressed in an effective and peaceful manner.
The IG noted that regions such as South and West Garo Hills, which share borders with Assam, are particularly sensitive. He added that parts of eastern Assam adjoining Meghalaya also fall under this category. “As far as Khasi Hills are concerned, we do not have such reports, as the terrain presents geographical challenges and the level of public awareness here is high,” he said.
He further confirmed that despite the prevailing turmoil in Bangladesh for over a year, there are no reports of any Indian Insurgent Groups (IIGs) operating near the Meghalaya border.
Asked about the recent NIA investigation in South Garo Hills following the New Delhi bomb blast, Upadhyay said that the NIA team had visited border areas but there was no confirmation yet on whether the probe was linked to the Delhi blast or other cases.
On the recent arrest of a Bangladeshi gang in Meghalaya, he said that Rongara Forest has historically been a hideout for Bangladeshi miscreants. However, following the arrest of several dreaded criminals with records even in Bangladesh, the area has remained largely peaceful and under control.
BSF hopeful of completing
border fencing by 2026-end
After being stalled for nearly two decades, border fencing along the Indo-Bangladesh border has resumed in several areas, and the BSF is optimistic that the 443 km-long international border in Meghalaya will be fully fenced by the end of 2026.
BSF Meghalaya Frontier IG, OP Upadhyay, said that last year the force managed to construct and operationalise around 20 km of fencing. He acknowledged impediments such as court cases, objections from the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), and concerns raised by local residents. He added that land has been secured for another 21 km of fencing, and work will begin soon. “By the end of 2026, we will completely fill the gaps along the border,” he said, while clarifying that demands for zero-line fencing are not feasible due to international conventions and terrain-related constraints.
He added that advanced surveillance equipment is being installed for improved border domination. The IG admitted that fencing has been damaged in some locations, but said these sections are being repaired with new designs and improved mechanisms.
