New Delhi: In the wake of intel inputs from India’s central intelligence agencies raising security concerns, the defence grid has reportedly ramped up security across land, air, and water routes linked to Bangladesh. The alert comes amid developing concerns over the resurgence of extremist activities in the neighbouring country. Political instability in Bangladesh has raised safety issues, reported News 18.
Top officials of different agencies told News18 that a high-level meeting was held in May first week with senior officials from various security and intelligence agencies. Officials cited the growing activities of the banned terror group Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB). The outfit held a public rally in Dhaka. The demonstration on May 10 showed support for Hamas amid the continuing Gaza battle. It also featured the public display of JMB flags. This has alarmed the Indian government.
Amid such concerns, the emerging link to Pakistan is all the more worrisome. Recently, the West Bengal Police arrested three individuals connected to JMB. Investigations indicate they were working on the direction of handlers based in Pakistan.
According to reports, the Border Security Force (BSF) has started restructuring its deployment plan along the Bangladesh border. The force has stepped up patrols in vulnerable regions, specifically in West Bengal.
Surveillance at airports in these regions has additionally been heightened. Special focus has been laid on flights coming back from Bangladesh. The security grid has issued advisories calling for extended checks and scrutiny of passengers, News 18 report claimed.
India has also taken steps to limit imports from Bangladesh. Restrictions have been imposed on two ports in India. A recent notification from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) states that certain goods—including sugar and other essential items—are now subject to restrictions, News 18 reported. However, officials have stated that the move aims to address trade imbalances. But experts believe that it also reflects growing national security concerns.
Security officials stress that all current measures are precautionary, based on actionable intelligence.
