Border Tensions Rise as BSF Takes Action Against Illegal Construction by Bangladesh

Feb 5, 2025

Follow us on


The BSF has increased surveillance and instructed field commanders to take strict action against illegal construction along the India-Bangladesh border. Read the latest on this growing concern.

Border Tensions Rise as BSF Takes Action Against Illegal Construction by Bangladesh

Amid growing concerns over border security, the Border Security Force (BSF) has stepped up its efforts to monitor and prevent illegal construction activities along the 4096-kilometer India-Bangladesh border. This development has been prompted by reports indicating that Bangladesh has been attempting to build structures along its side of the border, an activity reminiscent of China's aggressive tactics in disputed regions. The BSF has now given its field commanders full discretion to take stern actions against any such attempts.

According to sources, the illegal constructions are not just a violation of border security protocols but could also be seen as a part of a larger strategy to undermine the territorial integrity of India. Since 2024, the BSF has recorded nearly 80 instances of unauthorized construction along the border. The highest number of such incidents has been reported in the North Bengal Frontier, which is responsible for securing the border in West Bengal, covering approximately 932 kilometers.


The Rising Threat of Border Violations

In a recent development on February 4-5, 2025, a group of armed Bangladeshis attempted to infiltrate the border at South Dinajpur’s Malikpur village in West Bengal. This attack targeted a BSF team, resulting in injuries to one BSF personnel and a Bangladeshi national. The assailants, who were equipped with heavy weaponry, were reportedly involved in cross-border smuggling and looting. Despite attempts to apprehend the intruders, the situation escalated into a violent clash. In response, the BSF fired non-lethal rounds to stop the attackers. However, as tensions soared, the group retreated back to Bangladesh after trying to seize a BSF soldier's weapon.

This incident underscores the persistent challenges that the BSF faces in protecting the integrity of India’s borders, especially as illegal activities become more frequent and sophisticated. The use of heavy arms and tools like wire cutters points to the serious nature of these incursions.


BSF’s Proactive Measures: Tightening Border Security

In light of these developments, the BSF has issued clear directives to its field commanders to take immediate and severe action against any illegal construction or infiltration attempts. Commanders have been instructed to maintain heightened vigilance and to prevent any activity within 150 meters of the border. Regular patrolling and surprise checks will be implemented to curb these violations.

Moreover, BSF officials have been tasked with conducting frequent visits to sensitive areas along the border. These efforts aim not only to deter further encroachments but also to provide on-the-ground intelligence and to deploy reinforcements where necessary.


Ongoing Border Issues with Bangladesh

Tensions between India and Bangladesh have been on the rise, particularly concerning border management and security protocols. While the BSF has maintained that its interactions with the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) remain cordial at the senior levels, there are increasing concerns over the illegal activities carried out by individuals and groups operating across the border. The BSF’s North Bengal Frontier has been on high alert, especially after the political shift in Bangladesh in 2024. The alleged attempts at border construction near areas such as Mekhliganj have only intensified these concerns.

The situation escalated further when both nations summoned each other’s diplomats over border security issues. Bangladesh expressed its concerns over the Indian border fortifications and the fatalities related to border patrol operations, while India clarified that all protocols were being followed in line with international agreements.


Strategic Significance of the India-Bangladesh Border

The India-Bangladesh border spans five Indian states: West Bengal, Tripura, Meghalaya, Assam, and Mizoram. BSF is tasked with safeguarding this extensive stretch, which also serves as a key point for trade and bilateral exchanges between the two nations. However, recent tensions have highlighted the fragile nature of the relationship, especially in border areas where cross-border smuggling and illegal activities are rampant.

With a growing number of violations along the border, including attempts to alter the landscape through illegal construction, both India and Bangladesh are grappling with the complexities of securing their borders while balancing diplomatic relations. The increasing frequency of such incidents suggests that border security will remain a priority issue in the years to come.


Conclusion: A Wake-Up Call for Border Security

The situation along the India-Bangladesh border serves as a critical reminder of the challenges in safeguarding national borders against unauthorized incursions and violations. With the BSF now equipped with the authority to take stringent actions, it remains to be seen how this will affect the broader diplomatic landscape between India and Bangladesh.

For now, the BSF continues its vigilance, ensuring that no stone is left unturned in preventing any further threats or illegal activities on the border.

© 2025 Hey Colleagues. All rights reserved.