By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, June 21: Out of the 443-kilometre-long Indo-Bangladesh border in Meghalaya, 59 km still remain unfenced — which translates to around 13% of the total fencing work yet to be completed.
The Border Security Force (BSF) has expressed its intent to complete fencing along these remaining stretches, which have grown increasingly sensitive due to recent attempts by Bangladeshi nationals to infiltrate into India through the Meghalaya sector.
Speaking to the media, Inspector General of BSF Meghalaya Frontier, OP Upadhyay, stated that the force is committed to fencing the remaining 59 km. He noted that the BSF is receiving full support from the state government, and that Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma is actively monitoring the situation to ensure the border is fully secured.
Meghalaya shares a 443-kilometre border with Bangladesh. However, fencing in certain stretches has faced opposition from local stakeholders, who argue that fencing should be constructed along the zero line rather than 150 yards inside Indian territory, as the latter would result in significant loss of private and community land.
Recently, the BSF Inspector General also briefed Chief Minister Sangma on critical issues relating to border security, cross-border movement, and the need for enhanced coordination between the BSF and state agencies.
The call for completion of border fencing gains urgency amid increased concerns over infiltration and the need for stronger border management in Meghalaya.
