Indian Coast Guard Enhances Security Along Maritime Border Amid Political Unrest In Bangladesh

Amid heightened tensions in Bangladesh following the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the Indian Coast Guard has significantly bolstered security along the international maritime boundary line to prevent any potential illegal intrusions into India.

Deputy Director General Anupam Rai of the Indian Coast Guard informed ANI on Monday that security measures have been intensified to address potential threats. “Following the political unrest in Bangladesh, the Indian Coast Guard has enhanced its patrolling and surveillance along the international maritime boundary line. To prevent any hostile acts and illegal intrusions, we have increased security and positioned two to three ships. The Sunderban Creek areas are being patrolled by our air cushion vessels and interceptor boats,” Rai stated.

He added that the Sunderban Creek areas are closely monitored with air cushion vessels and interceptor boats. The Indian Coast Guard’s coastal surveillance radars at Haldia, Paradeep, and Gopalpur are operating around the clock to scan India’s close coasts for any signs of illegal activity. “So far, no illegal activities have been reported, but we have instructed our ships to board all fishing boats or any vessels near the Indo-Bangladesh International Maritime Border Line (IMBL) or in the creek areas,” Rai noted.

In addition to the Coast Guard’s efforts, Border Security forces have tightened security along the Indo-Bangladesh international border in response to the ongoing crisis in Bangladesh. Deployment at border outposts has been increased, and all surveillance equipment is being utilized to ensure effective monitoring.

The Ministry of Home Affairs has established a committee, led by the Additional Director General (ADG) of the BSF Eastern Command, to oversee the situation at the Indo-Bangladesh Border (IBB). In a letter dated August 9, Under Secretary Smitha Viju announced the formation of the committee, which includes the ADG, IGs of BSF Frontier HQ South Bengal and Tripura, and members from LPAI.

Bangladesh is currently experiencing a volatile political climate, with Sheikh Hasina resigning from her position as Prime Minister on August 5 amidst escalating protests. The unrest began in early July due to demands for reforming the quota system for civil service jobs, and intensified with opposition to a new policy allocating government jobs to descendants of freedom fighters, leading to violence including attacks on state television headquarters and police booths in Dhaka.

(With ANI Inputs)

Also Read: The Open Letter: To Stop Ongoing Targeted Attacks On Hindus In Bangladesh