The twice-postponed Director General (DG)-level border talks between India and Bangladesh are now scheduled to take place from February 16 to 19 in New Delhi. The discussions, part of the 55th edition of the bi-annual talks, will focus on key issues such as border fencing and the increased infiltration attempts observed since the regime change in Bangladesh, official sources said on Wednesday.
Rescheduling of Talks
The high-level meeting between the Border Security Force (BSF) of India and the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) was initially postponed twice last year. This will be the first such interaction since the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government on August 5, 2024. Preparations for the talks are underway, with discussions aimed at addressing long-standing issues and reinforcing bilateral cooperation along the 4,096 km shared border.
Focus on Border Fencing and Objections
One of the central issues on the agenda is the construction of a “single-row” border fence at 92 identified patches spanning approximately 95.8 km. While this fencing project was agreed upon earlier, Bangladesh has raised objections, which have led to delays and diplomatic tensions. The discussions will emphasize resolving these concerns to facilitate the ongoing fencing work, a key element of India’s border management strategy.
The issue gained prominence last week when both nations summoned each other’s High Commissioners to address grievances. Bangladesh expressed its “deep concern” regarding BSF activities related to fence construction and border killings. In response, India asserted that all laid-down protocols were being followed and urged Bangladesh to adhere to prior agreements to foster a cooperative approach to combating cross-border crimes.
Rising Infiltration Attempts
The Indian delegation is expected to highlight the alarming rise in infiltration attempts by Bangladeshi nationals since August 2024. These incidents are often linked to human trafficking and cross-border smuggling activities. Official data reveals that BSF troops apprehended 1,956 Bangladeshi nationals between August and December last year, accounting for over half of the total 3,474 apprehensions in 2024. In 2023, the BSF intercepted 4,342 Bangladeshi nationals along the border, underscoring the persistence of the issue.
Progress and Challenges in Fencing
A senior BSF officer reported that the construction of the single-row fence is ongoing despite some hurdles, particularly in areas of West Bengal, Assam, and Tripura. While Bangladeshi authorities have raised issues at specific locations, efforts to complete the project are continuing.
Historical Context of the Talks
The DG-level border talks, first held annually between 1975 and 1992, have been conducted bi-annually since 1993. These meetings alternate between New Delhi and Dhaka, providing a platform for both sides to address operational challenges and strengthen cooperation. The previous edition took place in Dhaka in March 2024, when an Indian delegation visited Bangladesh to engage in dialogue.
Joint Record of Discussions
After the talks, a Joint Record of Discussions (JRD) will be signed by the chiefs of the BSF and BGB, formalizing agreements reached during the meeting. This document serves as a blueprint for future collaborative measures and outlines resolutions to address mutual concerns.
Broader Implications
The upcoming discussions hold significant importance in light of recent tensions. The rise in infiltration and concerns over border security have necessitated enhanced collaboration to address shared challenges. Both sides are expected to reaffirm their commitment to maintaining peace and order along the border, with an emphasis on tackling human trafficking, smuggling, and other cross-border crimes.
The outcomes of these talks will not only influence bilateral relations but also set the tone for addressing broader regional security concerns, particularly in the sensitive border regions of West Bengal, Assam, and Tripura. With both nations recognizing the need for constructive dialogue, the DG-level talks are poised to play a pivotal role in strengthening the India-Bangladesh partnership.
