Bangladesh-India to address border concerns in high-level security talks
Top officials from Bangladesh’s Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and India’s Border Security Force (BSF) will convene in New Delhi from February 17–20 for a pivotal four-day summit aimed at resolving long-standing border disputes and enhancing cross-border cooperation.
The talks, announced by Bangladesh’s Home Affairs Adviser Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, will focus on revising contentious agreements, curbing violence, and tackling transnational crime.
During a preparatory inter-ministerial meeting in Dhaka, Chowdhury emphasized Bangladesh’s intent to push for the cancellation of “uneven agreements” governing border management, which critics argue disproportionately favor India. Key agenda items include addressing the fatal shootings of Bangladeshi civilians by Indian forces, unauthorized crossings by Indian nationals, and illegal arms and drug trafficking.
Chowdhury highlighted concerns over India’s unapproved infrastructure projects within 150 yards of the border—a violation of bilateral protocols—and the BSF’s alleged arbitrary detention of Bangladeshis. Bangladesh also plans to demand stricter measures against smuggling networks that disguise narcotics like yaba tablets and phensidyl syrup as “medicines” to bypass scrutiny.
Disputed territories, including the Muhurir Char region, and delays in installing border pillars will feature prominently in discussions. Additionally, Dhaka seeks collaboration on environmental issues, proposing joint water treatment plants to address pollution in four canals near the Agartala-Akhaura border.
The talks will also address misinformation campaigns, with Bangladesh urging India to curb speculative reporting by Indian media and social media platforms about its domestic stability. Another critical proposal involves establishing an immigration and customs checkpoint at the Kulaura Railway Station, located three kilometers inside Bangladesh, to regulate Indian access to the cross-border transit hub.
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