BSF tightens security after Bangladesh elections

BALURGHAT: The BSF has tightened the security arrangements in the areas located at the extreme India-Bangladesh border of South Dinajpur district to ensure peace in the Indian side after the general elections in Bangladesh on Sunday.

The jawans were seen patrolling along the Hili border around 24 km away from here.

According to a BSF source, the step of beefing up the security measures was necessary because there were chances of Bangladeshi extremist organisations using the Hili corridor for taking shelter in India after committing any crime during the poll.

The BSF and the police are jointly conducting search operations. A high alert has been issued for the 11 sensitive check-posts in the district including Hili, Raghunathpur, Patiram, Gangarampur, Rampur, Tapan and Buniadpur. A vigil is maintained at bus depots, railway platforms and public places. Passengers travelling in long distance buses and trains are being checked and interrogated thoroughly.

According to a senior police officers, the department has appealed to every resident of several villages, particularly those close to border areas, to cooperate with the police.

Senior administrative officials said a mutual understanding and close cooperation among police officers, the BSF men and general public will help the administration maintain security in the district.

"The jawans are alert to avoid any untoward situation. Our senior officials have instructed us to intensify the search operations due to Bangladesh poll. We always try to make close contact with the BGB counterpart," said officiating commandant of 199 Battalion of BSF, Dhananjay

Kumar Singh.