Key Border Issues to be Addressed
According to Home Adviser Lt Gen (retd.) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, the talks will cover a wide range of border-related issues between the two nations. This includes the scrapping of what Bangladesh perceives as “uneven agreements” in areas such as border management. Chowdhury stated, “Discussions will be held over all sorts of border-related agreements with India,” highlighting Bangladesh’s intention to address what it views as unfair provisions.
One significant issue that will be raised is the situation at Kulaura Railway Station, an inter-country station located three kilometers inside Bangladesh. The BGB has proposed a restriction on the free movement of Indian nationals there and suggested the installation of an immigration checkpoint and customs facility at the border.
Bangladesh’s Concerns Over Border Security
The talks will also touch on the issue of border killings, where Bangladesh nationals have been killed in border areas. Another critical issue is the infiltration of Indian nationals into Bangladesh, alongside smuggling activities involving weapons, drugs, and explosives.
Chowdhury emphasized the problem of narcotics smuggling under the guise of “medicine,” which, in reality, involves illegal drugs. The meeting will also address the unapproved development activities being carried out by India within 150 yards of the border, an issue that has been a source of contention for Bangladesh.
Disputed Areas and Border Management
Another major topic on the agenda is the Muhurir Char area, a disputed territory, and the need for clear demarcation of the border line. Discussions will include the installation of border pillars and the establishment of a coordinated border management plan to ensure smooth operations between the two forces.
The issue of water management will also be a key focus, with Bangladesh proposing the installation of water treatment plants in four canals to handle wastewater flowing from India’s northeastern Agartala into Bangladesh’s Akhaura.
Rumors and Media Coverage
Chowdhury further mentioned that the spread of rumors about Bangladesh’s internal situation in Indian media and on social networking sites would also be brought up for discussion. He stressed the importance of addressing misinformation and ensuring better bilateral communication.
Bilateral Relations and Future Cooperation
The 55th BGB-BSF DG-level conference will serve as a platform not just for addressing these issues, but also for enhancing mutual trust and goodwill between Bangladesh and India. Chowdhury emphasized that cooperation on joint development projects, such as the construction of religious structures like mosques and temples, must be mutually agreed upon by both sides, reinforcing the idea that all actions within the border zone must have joint consent.
Conclusion
As the BGB and BSF prepare for this critical meeting, the future of Bangladesh-India border relations could see significant changes, especially concerning border management, security, and development policies. The outcome of these discussions will likely shape the diplomatic landscape and enhance bilateral cooperation between the two neighboring countries.
