- BGB halts India’s barbed wire fencing attempts along the Bangladesh border.
- Unified action by BGB and residents ensures territorial integrity.
- Diplomatic measures initiated to resolve the border dispute.
- Upcoming BGB-BSF meeting to address critical border issues.
- Existing agreements prohibit construction within 150 yards of the border.
The Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), with support from local residents, has successfully stopped India’s recent attempts to construct barbed wire fencing at five border locations. The announcement came during a press briefing by Home Affairs Advisor Lieutenant General (Retd.) Md. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury on January 12, 2025, in Dhaka.
Lt. Gen. Chowdhury emphasized the collective resistance by BGB personnel and border residents, which forced India to halt its construction efforts. Diplomatic channels have been activated to ensure the issue is addressed promptly.
India’s attempt to construct barbed wire fencing along five locations of the Bangladesh-India border was met with swift action by the BGB. According to Lt. Gen. Chowdhury, the coordinated efforts of BGB forces and the solidarity of local residents played a crucial role in safeguarding Bangladesh’s territorial rights.
“India and Bangladesh are maintaining communication to address these challenges diplomatically. We are confident that swift actions will follow,” the advisor stated during the briefing. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also been informed to ensure the matter is escalated through diplomatic channels.
Background on Border Agreements
Lt. Gen. Chowdhury outlined the agreements governing border operations. Under the 1975 Bangladesh-India Joint Border Guidelines, construction within 150 yards of the zero line requires mutual consent.
Moreover, any defensive structures in this zone are strictly prohibited. Four bilateral agreements govern border demarcations and responsibilities, underscoring the importance of adhering to established protocols.
Of the 4,156 kilometers of shared border, 3,271 kilometers have already been fenced. However, an 885-kilometer stretch remains unfenced, highlighting the ongoing complexities of border management.
Diplomatic Measures
To address the issue, the government plans to formally notify the Indian High Commission in Dhaka and send a letter regarding the cancellation of past unfair agreements related to border fencing. Moreover, an upcoming Director General-level meeting between the BGB and India’s Border Security Force (BSF) in February aims to discuss these matters and strengthen cooperative border management.
In response to a journalist’s query, Lt. Gen. Chowdhury reassured the public about the BGB’s readiness. “Our forces are well-prepared, and with the support of the people, we will firmly resist any adverse actions,” he stated. He also emphasized, in addition, the importance of community involvement in maintaining border security.
The press briefing was attended by several high-ranking officials, including Special Assistant to the Chief Advisor Md. Khoda Bakhsh Chowdhury, Inspector General of Police Baharul Alam, and BGB Director General Major General Mohammad Ashrafuzzaman Siddiqui. Their presence underscored, in fact, the unified approach of Bangladesh’s government and security forces in addressing the border issue.
The recent events demonstrate Bangladesh’s commitment to protecting its borders while fostering diplomatic dialogue. As a result, the collaborative efforts of the BGB, local residents, and government agencies highlight the nation’s unified stance on sovereignty. Upcoming discussions with India aim to resolve the matter amicably and ensure adherence to existing agreements.