SHILLONG, July 20: The Coordination Committee on International Borders (CCIB) on Monday reiterated that it is not opposed to the construction of fencing along the India-Bangladesh border but insisted that the government first resolve boundary issues through consultations with landowners and border residents.
A CCIB delegation, led by its chairman Kmen Myrchiang, met Border Security Force (BSF) Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Naval Singh to discuss concerns relating to proposed border fencing. The delegation was accompanied by leaders of the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) central body and the KSU West Jaintia Hills unit.
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Myrchiang said the discussions primarily focused on the stretch between border pillars 12/72 and 12/78 along the Umngot River.
He said the CCIB raised concerns over the demarcation of the international boundary, pointing out that under the 1958 agreement between India and Bangladesh, the boundary in the area should run through the middle of the Umngot River, allowing both countries equal access to the waterway.
According to him, the present situation appears to place the entire river within the territory of Bangladesh, a development that has become a matter of serious concern for the CCIB.
Questioning both Central and state governments, Myrchiang asked why no action had been taken to address the issue despite its significance.
He maintained that the CCIB does not oppose border fencing but believes that the government should settle the boundary issue by holding detailed consultations with the landowners and local communities before proceeding with the project.
If the government claims that the boundary issue has already been settled, then the fencing should be erected from the zero line so that land belonging to local residents remains within Indian territory, Myrchiang emphasised.
He said the DIG of the BSF patiently heard the concerns raised by the delegation and assured it that the matter would be taken up with the appropriate authorities for further examination and discussion.
The CCIB has been consistently demanding that the interests of border residents and landowners be protected while implementing security measures along the international border.
