Bangladesh increases border vigilance over suspected forced crossings from India

10:15

Bangladesh has stepped up border surveillance and awareness campaigns along its frontier with India amid growing concerns over alleged forced cross-border movements of people, according to border officials.

Bangladeshi authorities say border guards have intensified patrols in several sensitive areas and launched public information campaigns in villages near the border to alert residents about possible unauthorized crossings. Officials argue that these measures aim to strengthen security and prevent illegal activities such as human trafficking and smuggling.

The situation comes as migration and border management remain politically sensitive issues between the two neighbouring countries. India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party has previously stated that addressing undocumented migration is a key priority in states bordering Bangladesh.

Bangladesh, however, maintains that any repatriation or movement of individuals must follow formal diplomatic procedures agreed upon by both governments. Officials in Dhaka have expressed concern over what they describe as irregular or unilateral actions along sections of the border.

Border Guard Bangladesh has reportedly increased patrol operations and intelligence monitoring to improve control of border areas. Authorities have also used loudspeaker announcements in rural communities to raise awareness and encourage residents to report suspicious activity.

Security officials say these efforts are aimed at preventing illegal crossings and strengthening cooperation against cross-border crimes, including trafficking networks and smuggling operations. Despite tensions, both countries continue to maintain diplomatic channels to manage border-related issues.