By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Dec 17: The Meghalaya government said there would be no let-up in security along the India-Bangladesh border after the detection of Bayraktar TB2 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) flying close to Sohra and Shella.
The sightings raised concerns given the political instability in the neighbouring country.
Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, also in charge of the Home Department, said Tuesday that the matter is being handled in close coordination with the central agencies. “The border is being looked after by the Border Security Force. However, the state government and the central government are closely working together,” he said.
The detection of the UAVs flying 200 meters south of the zero line in Bangladesh, near Chhatak and Sunamganj, prompted heightened vigilance from the Indian security agencies. One of the UAVs, reportedly operated from the Tejgaon Airbase in Bangladesh, was confirmed by an Indian Air Force (IAF) radar.
Tynsong acknowledged the rising concerns over drone sightings and other security threats. “These issues are always being closely discussed. We are in a position to make sure that things are under control, and there is nothing to worry about,” he assured, appealing for calm among citizens.
Tynsong emphasised the constant communication between the Meghalaya government and the Ministry of Home Affairs. “We are in touch almost twice a day. We are also sharing inputs. While I cannot disclose details, rest assured that our country’s safety is intact, and we remain committed to its security,” he said.
The UAVs were sighted amid heightened diplomatic activity, with Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri recently concluding a key visit to Dhaka. Further complicating matters, similar UAV activities were reported along Bangladesh’s borders with Mizoram, Tripura, and West Bengal.
While the BSF remains on high alert, Tynsong reiterated that the Meghalaya government would ensure the safety of the state and its people from any external threat.