BSF, BGB step in as Mekhliganj tensions rise over watchtower, fencing
Times of India | 19 March 2025
12 Kolkata: Border Security Force officials stepped in, along with Border Guard Bangladesh personnel, on Tuesday after tensions flared at Nakargari international border in Cooch Behar's Mekhliganj a day earlier as BGB proceeded with unauthorised construction of a watchtower, despite objections from BSF.
BSF's attempt to then install barbed wire along the ‘zero line' border was met with resistance from BGB personnel and local Bangladesh residents. BSF agreed to halt the fence installation if BGB stopped the watchtower construction.
"There will be a meeting regarding BGB's watchtower. However, they have been asked to stop the work and the construction has been halted accordingly. The area remains calm," said the IG of BSF's North Bengal Frontier.
The disputed area connects to Bangladesh's Dahagram-Angarpota village through Tin Bigha Corridor. Of the 18-km border stretch, approximately 3km is unfenced, raising concerns about illegal crossings and smuggling.
"We want the barbed wire fence to be installed at the border quickly," said a local Phulkadabri panchayat member.
In a related development, BSF filed a complaint at Tufanganj police station on damage to border fencing in Balabhut area. Local law enforcement has begun an investigation.
Previous fencing attempts in the region have also been opposed. Officials from both sides are expected to meet to resolve the watchtower issue.