Assam Identifies 4.35-km Unfenced India-Bangladesh Border Stretch; Diplomatic Talks Underway

Guwahati, July 7: The Assam government has identified a 4.35-kilometre stretch of the India-Bangladesh international border that remains unfenced due to objections raised by the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB). Officials said the issue requires diplomatic engagement between New Delhi and Dhaka before border fencing work can resume.

The unfenced stretch has emerged as a security concern, with authorities warning that the gap could be vulnerable to illegal cross-border movement, smuggling and infiltration.

Border Fencing Stalled

According to officials, the fencing project has been delayed after the BGB objected to construction activities along the disputed stretch, citing concerns related to the alignment of the border fence and technical issues.

As per existing bilateral understandings, border fencing near the international boundary requires coordination between the Border Security Force (BSF) and the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) to avoid disputes.

Security Concerns

Security agencies have flagged the unfenced section as a sensitive area, stating that completing the border barrier is important for strengthening surveillance and preventing illegal crossings.

Officials said fencing the remaining stretch would improve border management and enhance security along the international boundary.

Diplomatic Engagement Continues

Sources said discussions are underway between Indian and Bangladeshi officials to resolve the issue through established diplomatic and border management mechanisms.

Meetings between the BSF and BGB, along with consultations involving the two governments, are expected to address the technical objections and facilitate completion of the fencing project.

Assam Seeks Central Intervention

The Assam government has reportedly urged the Central Government to expedite diplomatic efforts so that the remaining unfenced portion can be secured at the earliest.

Officials emphasised that the issue is being handled through bilateral dialogue and expressed hope that a mutually acceptable solution would be reached.

India-Bangladesh Border

India and Bangladesh share a 4,096-kilometre international border, the fifth-longest land border in the world. Large sections have already been fenced to curb illegal migration, cross-border crime and smuggling.

The remaining unfenced stretches are generally located in riverine areas or locations where technical, geographical or diplomatic challenges have delayed construction.

Both India and Bangladesh have indicated their willingness to continue dialogue to resolve pending issues and strengthen coordinated border management while maintaining peaceful bilateral relations.