Jan 23 || TC – The Border Security Force (BSF) Eastern Command has initiated an ‘Ops Alert’ along the 4,096 km-long Indo-Bangladesh Border (IBB) ahead of India’s Republic Day celebrations.
Increased patrolling and enhanced border surveillance are being carried out throughout the day and night. Ravi Gandhi, the Additional Director General (ADG) of the Eastern Command, BSF, recently visited the South Bengal Frontier to assess the readiness and strengthen interactions between the force and local communities along the Indian border.
According to a statement from the BSF Headquarters in Kolkata, the 'Ops Alert' has been launched to prevent any security breaches ahead of the country’s 76th Republic Day, particularly given the evolving situation in Bangladesh.
The alert covers all BSF field formations along the IBB, aiming to bolster security and reinforce border outposts.
"The ADG is closely monitoring the operational preparedness and strategic deployments across the South Bengal Frontier. He has instructed all formations to stay vigilant, particularly along the riverine and unfenced sections of the border," the BSF said in its statement.
The ‘Ops Alert’ includes a series of drills in both forward and in-depth areas, alongside a review of operational procedures to address any potential challenges along the border. Adjustments will be made as necessary.
On Thursday, Ravi Gandhi took part in a civic action program at a school near the IBB in West Bengal’s North 24-Parganas district, where he distributed sports kits, school bags, and other supplies to the students. Speaking about the initiative, he emphasized that empowering border communities and supporting youth development were key priorities. He also noted that such programs help foster patriotism and discipline in border regions.
A Sector Commander-level meeting was held between the BSF and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), during which issues, including restricting movement along the border (except for farmers), were discussed. Both forces reached an agreement on maintaining coordinated efforts to ensure the security of the IBB, particularly in areas like Sukdevpur in Malda, West Bengal.