Tensions along the India-Bangladesh border have reached a new peak, prompting the Indian government to summon Bangladesh Deputy High Commissioner Nural Islam on Monday. This action follows a recent meeting where the Bangladesh Foreign Ministry called in Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma to discuss the ongoing issues.
Nural Islam was seen exiting South Block after being summoned by the Ministry of External Affairs, as reported by ANI. This has been on claims by Dhaka that India is trying to put up fences at five places on the border, which it insists contravenes a bilateral deal.
Bangladesh Home Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury said conflicts have cropped up in sensitive areas, like Chapainawabganj, Naogaon, Lalmonirhat and the Tin Bigha Corridor. He criticized agreements signed by the previous Sheikh Hasina-led government saying that these “lopsided agreements” have sparked disputes over fencing in 160 places between 2010 and 2023.
Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma said after meeting Bangladeshi officials that both countries have established understandings regarding border fencing for security purposes. He noted that the Border Security Force (BSF) and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) have been in active communication on this issue. Verma expressed hope for a cooperative approach to address cross-border crimes, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between the two nations.
