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Border fencing row with Bangladesh

Introduction

The India-Bangladesh border spans approximately 4,096 kilometers, making it India’s longest international boundary. It traverses five Indian states: West Bengal, Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram. Given its length and porous nature, the border has been a source of complex challenges, including illegal migration, smuggling, and security concerns. To address these issues, India initiated the construction of a border fence.

While the fencing project aims to enhance security, it has also raised concerns related to bilateral relations, human rights, and the livelihood of border communities. This eBook explores the dynamics of the India-Bangladesh border fencing row, its implications, and possible resolutions, providing a comprehensive resource for UPSC aspirants.

Historical Context

  1. Partition of 1947

    • The partition of Bengal divided communities along religious lines, creating a legacy of porous borders.
    • The Radcliffe Line, hastily drawn, left ambiguities in the demarcation.

  2. Formation of Bangladesh (1971)

    • India played a key role in Bangladesh’s liberation, but the subsequent border disputes remained unresolved.

  3. Border Fencing Initiatives

    • Initiated in the 1980s to address cross-border challenges, including illegal immigration and smuggling.
    • The project gained momentum post-2000 under the Border Security Management Plan.

Reasons for Border Fencing

  1. Illegal Immigration

    • Large-scale migration from Bangladesh into Indian states like Assam and West Bengal has created demographic and political challenges.
    • The Assam Accord (1985) and subsequent debates on the National Register of Citizens (NRC) highlight this issue.

  2. Cross-Border Smuggling

    • Smuggling of goods, narcotics, arms, and cattle is rampant along the border.
    • The fencing aims to curb these illegal activities.

  3. Infiltration and Security Concerns

    • The porous border has been exploited by extremist groups and insurgents.
    • Strengthening the border is critical for national security.

  4. Human Trafficking

    • The region is a hotspot for human trafficking, particularly of women and children.

  5. Bilateral Agreements and Commitments

    • India’s commitment to secure its borders aligns with agreements under the India-Bangladesh Land Boundary Agreement (2015).

Challenges in Border Fencing

  1. Topographical Constraints

    • The border passes through rivers, wetlands, and dense forests, making fencing difficult.
    • In Meghalaya and Mizoram, the hilly terrain adds to the complexity.

  2. Displacement of Border Communities

    • Fencing often cuts through farmlands and villages, displacing local communities.
    • Restrictions on cross-border movement affect traditional livelihoods.

  3. Human Rights Concerns

    • Reports of civilian casualties due to firing by border security forces have drawn criticism.
    • International human rights organizations have raised concerns about the treatment of migrants.

  4. Diplomatic Sensitivities

    • Bangladesh has expressed concerns about the fencing project affecting bilateral ties.
    • The perception of India militarizing the border creates diplomatic friction.

  5. Incomplete Coverage

    • As of 2023, significant portions of the border remain unfenced due to legal, environmental, and logistical issues.

Economic and Social Implications

  • Impact on Livelihoods

    • Border communities dependent on cross-border trade and agriculture face restrictions.
    • Loss of access to markets and farmlands has worsened economic disparities.

  • Cost of Fencing

    • The project involves high financial costs, including maintenance of existing fences.

  • Strain on Resources

    • Deployment of additional security personnel places a burden on public resources.

  • Humanitarian Issues

    • Instances of refugees being stranded in no-man’s land highlight the need for a balanced approach.

India-Bangladesh Bilateral Relations

  1. Land Boundary Agreement (LBA) of 2015

    • Resolved long-standing border disputes, leading to the exchange of enclaves.
    • Improved cooperation on border management.

  2. Bilateral Mechanisms

    • Joint Working Groups and border coordination meetings have strengthened mutual trust.

  3. Economic Cooperation

    • Despite border challenges, trade between India and Bangladesh has grown significantly, reaching $18 billion in 2022.

  4. Bangladesh’s Concerns

    • Bangladesh views the fencing project as unilateral and against the spirit of bilateral friendship.
    • Issues like the Teesta water-sharing dispute and illegal cattle trade exacerbate tensions.

Strategies for Resolving the Fencing Row

  1. Enhancing Bilateral Cooperation

    • Strengthen joint mechanisms for resolving border disputes and managing cross-border issues.
    • Collaborate on tackling human trafficking and smuggling networks.

  2. Community Engagement

    • Involve local communities in border management to address their grievances and ensure livelihoods.
    • Promote cross-border cultural and economic exchanges.

  3. Technological Solutions

    • Use advanced surveillance technologies like drones, sensors, and satellite imagery to monitor the border.
    • Reduce reliance on physical fencing where terrain is challenging.

  4. Strengthening Legal Frameworks

    • Address gaps in existing laws related to migration, smuggling, and human trafficking.
    • Ensure humane treatment of migrants and refugees under international conventions.

  5. Sustainable Development Initiatives

    • Focus on development projects in border regions to reduce economic disparities.
    • Strengthen infrastructure to facilitate trade and connectivity.

Relevance for UPSC Aspirants

  1. General Studies Paper II

    • Topics like India’s bilateral relations, border management, and regional diplomacy.

  2. General Studies Paper III

    • Internal security challenges, smuggling, human trafficking, and technology in border management.

  3. Essay Writing

    • Topics such as “Securing Borders While Ensuring Bilateral Harmony” or “Border Management in South Asia: Challenges and Solutions.”

  4. Ethics and Human Rights

    • Dilemmas in balancing national security with the rights of border communities and migrants.

Conclusion

The India-Bangladesh border fencing project represents India’s efforts to secure its borders and address cross-border challenges. However, the project must be implemented with sensitivity to the needs of border communities and the spirit of India-Bangladesh friendship.

For UPSC aspirants, this topic provides valuable insights into the complexities of border management, regional diplomacy, and balancing security with development. As India continues to engage with Bangladesh on this issue, a collaborative and people-centric approach remains crucial.

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