India-Bangladesh Border Fencing Dispute

The ongoing border fencing dispute between India and Bangladesh has escalated recently. The Ministry of External Affairs of India reaffirmed compliance with bilateral agreements regarding border security. This follows Bangladesh’s concerns over the actions of the Border Security Force (BSF) during fencing operations. The border, measuring 4,096.7 km, is the longest land border India shares with any neighbouring country.

Background of the Dispute

The border fencing issue has historical roots. Tensions have existed since the division of India and Bangladesh. The construction of barbed wire fences has been a contentious topic. In August 2024, similar incidents occurred in Cooch Behar, West Bengal, after the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government in Bangladesh.

Recent Incidents

In Malda, the BSF was constructing a single row fence when the Border Guards Bangladesh (BGB) intervened. This incident was recorded and shared on social media. The BSF maintains that fencing is crucial for preventing trans-border crimes. However, Bangladesh views it as a violation of the 1975 Joint India-Bangladesh Guidelines for Border Authorities, which prohibits defence structures within 150 yards of the border.

Guidelines and Regulations

The 1975 guidelines stipulate that no defence structures should be built within a specified distance from the border. India argues that barbed wire fencing does not constitute a defence structure. The complex geography of the border often results in villages being situated very close to the international boundary.

Negotiation and Cooperation

Negotiations between the BSF and BGB are essential. In cases where fencing cannot adhere to the 150-yard rule, discussions are held to reach a mutual agreement. The BSF is supposed to inform Bangladesh before proceeding with fencing in sensitive areas.

Concerns of Bangladesh

Bangladesh’s objections are twofold. Firstly, they cite the 1975 agreement. Secondly, they argue that fencing disrupts the daily lives of border residents. The BSF argues that fencing is necessary to control animal movement and reduce cross-border crime.

Status of Fencing

As of 2023, approximately 3,141 km of the India-Bangladesh border has been fenced. However, challenges remain. Issues such as land acquisition, local objections, and geographical barriers hinder complete fencing. The remaining unfenced areas are often riverine, where traditional fencing is impractical.

Security Implications

The BSF emphasizes that fencing is vital for national security. It aims to mitigate trans-border crimes, which are more frequent in unfenced regions. The introduction of advanced surveillance technologies has also faced resistance from Bangladesh, further complicating the situation.

Future Prospects

The future of the India-Bangladesh border fencing project hinges on continued dialogue. Both nations must address the concerns of local populations while ensuring border security. The complexities of the border’s geography and historical context will require careful negotiation and cooperation.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically discuss the implications of the 1975 Joint India-Bangladesh Guidelines for Border Authorities on current border management practices.
2. Examine the role of the Border Security Force in maintaining security along the India-Bangladesh border and its impact on local communities.
3. Analyse the potential consequences of unresolved border disputes on India-Bangladesh relations in the context of regional security.
4. Estimate the impact of geographical challenges on the effectiveness of border fencing along the India-Bangladesh border.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically discuss the implications of the 1975 Joint India-Bangladesh Guidelines for Border Authorities on current border management practices.

1. The 1975 guidelines prohibit the construction of defence structures within 150 yards of the international border.
2. India argues that barbed wire fencing does not qualify as a defence structure, leading to differing interpretations.
3. Compliance with the guidelines has been challenged by both nations, affecting border security operations.
4. The guidelines complicate construction efforts where villages are located close to the border, necessitating negotiations.
5. Historical context and legacy issues from partition continue to influence adherence to these guidelines.

2. Examine the role of the Border Security Force in maintaining security along the India-Bangladesh border and its impact on local communities.

1. The BSF is tasked with preventing trans-border crimes, which are prevalent in unfenced areas.
2. Fencing initiatives by the BSF aim to control animal movement and enhance security, but face local resistance.
3. Local communities experience disruptions due to fencing, leading to tensions between residents and the BSF.
4. The BSF engages in negotiations with the Border Guards Bangladesh (BGB) to address security concerns collaboratively.
5. Emergency protocols are in place for local movement, but the effectiveness varies depending on local administration cooperation.

3. Analyse the potential consequences of unresolved border disputes on India-Bangladesh relations in the context of regional security.

1. Unresolved disputes can lead to heightened tensions and mistrust between India and Bangladesh.
2. Border conflicts may exacerbate security risks, allowing for increased trans-border crimes.
3. Failure to resolve issues could hinder economic cooperation and bilateral trade agreements.
4. Long-standing disputes may affect regional stability, impacting neighboring countries’ security dynamics.
5. Persistent disagreements could lead to diplomatic strains, complicating future negotiations on various issues.

4. Estimate the impact of geographical challenges on the effectiveness of border fencing along the India-Bangladesh border.

1. The India-Bangladesh border features complex geography, including rivers and densely populated areas.
2. Fencing is impractical in riverine regions, necessitating reliance on the BSF’s water wing for security.
3. Villages located close to the border complicate adherence to the 150-yard fencing guidelines.
4. Geographical barriers often result in small patches of unfenced land, creating security vulnerabilities.
5. Negotiations are required to address unique challenges posed by the terrain, affecting overall fencing effectiveness.