New Delhi, Jan 13: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) summoned Bangladesh’s Acting High Commissioner to India, Md Nural Islam, to the South Block today at 2 pm amid rising tensions over border security.
In a press release, the MEA stated, “It was conveyed that with regard to security measures at the border, including on fencing, India observed all protocols and agreements between the two governments and between the Border Security Force (BSF) and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB).”
The MEA reaffirmed India’s commitment to securing the border and combating cross-border crimes. “India reiterated its commitment to ensuring a crime-free border by effectively addressing the challenges of cross-border criminal activities, smuggling, movement of criminals, and trafficking. Barbed wire fencing, border lighting, installation of technical devices, and cattle fences are measures for securing the border,” the statement read.
India also urged Bangladesh to honour previous agreements. “India conveyed its expectation that all earlier understandings will be implemented by Bangladesh and that there will be a cooperative approach to combating cross-border crimes,” the press release added.
This diplomatic exchange followed Bangladesh’s summoning of Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma in Dhaka a day earlier. Bangladesh’s foreign ministry expressed “deep concern” over border fencing activities, which they claimed violated bilateral agreements.
During the meeting in Dhaka, Bangladesh’s Foreign Secretary Mohammad Jashim Uddin raised objections to what he described as “unauthorised” fencing attempts by the BSF at some locations along the border.
Pranay Verma, speaking to reporters, stated , “We have an understanding with regard to fencing the border for security. BSF and BGB have been in communication in this regard.
We expect that understanding will be implemented and there will be a cooperative approach to combating crime.”
Tensions have been simmering along the border following the exit of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the establishment of an interim government in Dhaka.
