With tensions escalating between nuclear-armed neighbours India and Pakistan, Bangladesh is apparently confronting a complex and potentially destabilising security challenge along its borders.
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Baharul Alam has instructed law enforcement, particularly in frontier regions, to remain on high alert to prevent any possible infiltration of militants or terrorists.
He expressed concern over deteriorating security conditions not just along India’s borders, but also near Myanmar.
The heightened alert comes amid reports that India’s Border Security Force (BSF) pushed 66 Indian nationals—including women and children—into Bangladesh on Wednesday.
The group, reportedly Muslim residents of Gujarat, allegedly entered through the Matiranga and Panchhari areas of Khagrachhari.
According to Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) sources, they were pushed in through multiple border points including Shantipur, Achalong Para, and Joysenpara.
Authorities suspect these individuals were flown from Gujarat to Tripura by two separate flights before being moved across the border. Local residents confirmed that many among the group speak both Gujarati and Bengali.
Khagrachhari’s acting Deputy Commissioner Nazmun Ara Sultana confirmed the arrival, stating, “Sixty-six people have entered through the Matiranga and Panchhari upazilas. We are verifying their identities.”
Reacting to these developments, National Security Adviser Dr Khalilur Rahman said any such push-ins must follow diplomatic protocol.
“This needs to be done in a formal channel,” he said when a journalist wanted to know his comments referring to media reports.
Talking to reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Khalilur Rahman said they are also getting the news that the reporter referred to.
“We are examining each case separately. Our decision is we will receive only if there is proof that they are Bangladeshi citizens,” he added.
Meanwhile, Assistant Inspector General (Media) of Police Headquarters, Enamul Haque Sagar, confirmed that Superintendents of Police in 32 border districts have received directives to tighten patrols and enhance intelligence gathering.
While border security is primarily the domain of BGB, the police’s involvement underscores the gravity of the situation.