Bangladesh and India reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening border security and preventing cross-border crimes through enhanced coordination, joint patrolling, and public awareness initiatives. The agreement came during a four-day Director General-level coordination conference between the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and the Border Security Force (BSF) of India, held from February 17 to 20 in New Delhi.
The Bangladesh delegation was led by Major General Mohammad Ashrafuzzaman Siddiqui, Director General of BGB, while the Indian side was headed by BSF Director General Daljit Singh Chawdhary. This high-level meeting, held twice a year alternately in India and Bangladesh, plays a crucial role in reinforcing border management cooperation between the two neighboring nations.
Both countries agreed to intensify joint border patrols, boost vigilance, and increase real-time information sharing to prevent illegal crossings, smuggling, human trafficking, and other trans-border crimes. The two forces also committed to ensuring border security without resorting to lethal force, with BSF reiterating its adherence to a non-lethal policy along the Indo-Bangladesh border.
Recognizing the importance of socio-economic initiatives in border management, both sides emphasized undertaking development programs and improving coordination to minimize border-related violence. Efforts will also be made to ensure the rescue and rehabilitation of human trafficking victims under the respective legal frameworks of both countries.
Discussions covered a wide range of issues, including border killings, illegal crossings, and infrastructure developments within 150 yards of the international boundary. The conference also addressed environmental concerns, such as the establishment of an effluent treatment plant (ETP) for wastewater from Agartala to Akhaura, along with matters related to riverbank protection and water sharing.
BGB raised concerns over reported intrusions into Bangladeshi territory by BSF personnel, Indian police, smugglers, and other miscreants. Meanwhile, BSF highlighted issues related to alleged assaults on its personnel by Bangladesh-based criminals and stressed the need for coordinated action against Indian Insurgent Groups (IIGs) operating from Bangladesh.
Both forces pledged to uphold the Coordinated Border Management Plan (CBMP) and implement confidence-building measures through joint activities such as sports events, retreat ceremonies, and goodwill visits. The two sides expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the conference and committed to maintaining peace and stability along the border through sustained cooperation.
The next Director General-level conference is tentatively scheduled to be held in Dhaka in July 2025.

𝐁𝐎𝐁 𝐏𝐨𝐬𝐭