The Border Security Force (BSF) has categorically denied allegations circulating in Bangladeshi media that Border Guards Bangladesh (BGB) has taken control of a 5-kilometer stretch of Indian land along the International Border (IB). Terming the reports as “baseless and irresponsible,” the BSF clarified that these claims lack truth and merit.
In an official statement, the BSF South Bengal Frontier emphasised that the alleged area, located in Ranghat village of Bagda block, North 24 Parganas district, remains well within Indian territory. The IB, which runs along the Kodaliya River, is clearly demarcated with reference pillars on both sides, and there have been no changes in the border status or BSF’s duty patterns for decades.
Refuting additional claims that BGB personnel had initiated 24-hour patrolling using motorised boats and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) since December 19, the BSF dismissed these as “concocted stories.” It further stated that both forces continue to operate peacefully on their respective sides of the river in accordance with the India-Bangladesh Border Guidelines, 1975.
Unfenced Area Under Vigilance
The BSF acknowledged that the area in question is unfenced and susceptible to smuggling and infiltration attempts by Bangladeshi nationals. However, it highlighted that strict measures have significantly reduced such activities to negligible levels.
The BSF firmly stated, “Not an inch of Indian land has been, or will be, taken over by the counterpart.” It reassured me that both forces are working to ensure the integrity of the IB remains intact.
Goodwill Under Threat
The reports, allegedly attributed to Lt. Col. Rafique Islam, the newly appointed commanding officer of the 58 BGB, were criticised by the BSF for being false and fabricated. “Such claims will only erode the goodwill and trust between the two border-guarding forces,” the statement concluded.
The BSF’s strong rebuttal reinforces its commitment to safeguarding India’s territorial sovereignty and maintaining peace along the sensitive border region.
