India-Bangladesh Border Fencing Dispute: Balancing Security, Agreements, and Diplomacy

(Source – Indian Express, Section – Explained – Page No. – 15)

Analysis of the news:

The Recent Dispute in Malda and Cooch Behar

• Recent incidents in West Bengal’s Malda and Cooch Behar highlighted tensions between the Border Security Force (BSF) and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB).
• In Malda, BGB intervened in BSF’s fencing efforts, claiming a violation of the 1975 agreement prohibiting construction within 150 yards of the international boundary.
• Similarly, in Cooch Behar, BGB objected to fencing efforts by villagers with BSF support to prevent cross-border cattle movement.

The 1975 Border Guidelines

• The 1975 Joint India-Bangladesh Guidelines prohibit defense structures within 150 yards of the zero line.
• India, however, considers barbed-wire fences as non-defensive, unlike Bangladesh, which views them as potential security concerns.
• Complex border terrain, including villages and rivers along the 4,096.7 km border, often necessitates exceptions to these guidelines, requiring bilateral negotiations.

Bangladesh’s Objections

Bangladesh objects to fencing for two primary reasons:

1. Violation of the 1975 Agreement: Fences closer than 150 yards to the border are perceived as breaches.
2. Inconvenience to Residents: Fencing disrupts the daily lives of border residents, especially where villages lie close to or across the boundary.

Additionally, smart fencing with surveillance capabilities has been criticized for allowing India visibility into Bangladeshi territory.

India’s Perspective on Fencing

• India asserts that single-row fences (SRF) are essential to curb cross-border crimes like smuggling and illegal migration.
• Unlike defensive structures, SRF is seen as a non-military tool to manage border security.
• With over 81.5% of the West Bengal-Bangladesh border already fenced, the process continues to face challenges due to land acquisition issues and local resistance.

Challenges and Implications

1. Geopolitical Sensitivities: Fencing disagreements strain diplomatic relations, especially amid political transitions in Bangladesh.
2. Cross-Border Crime: Unfenced areas see high crime rates, necessitating stricter measures.
3. Local Disruptions: Border residents face restrictions on movement and livelihood activities, complicating bilateral agreements.

Conclusion:

• Balancing security needs with diplomatic agreements and local interests remains crucial.
• India and Bangladesh must engage in consistent dialogue to address disputes and ensure smoother border management while respecting bilateral commitments.

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