Indian BSF's Barbed Wire Fencing at Zero Line in Lalmonirhat: Concerns Rise Among Bangladeshis

Indian BSF's Barbed Wire Fencing at Zero Line in Lalmonirhat: Concerns Rise Among Bangladeshis

Dahgram, Lalmonirhat – In the Dahgram union of Patgram upazila in Lalmonirhat district, the Indian Border Security Force (BSF) has begun installing barbed wire fences and surveillance systems near the zero line, causing significant concern among local Bangladeshi residents.

The Dahgram union, covering 23 square kilometers and home to approximately 20,000 Bangladeshi citizens, is geographically located inside India. The only access route for the residents to enter or exit Bangladesh is through the Tin Bigha Corridor. However, recent BSF activities, including fencing, patrolling, installation of high-powered lights, and surveillance, have severely impacted the daily lives of the locals.

Barbed Wire Fencing and Rising Concerns

Field observations reveal that the BSF has erected a four-foot-high barbed wire fence using iron angles along the zero line pillars. Glass bottles have been attached to the fence, further escalating tensions on both sides of the border. Dahgram resident Fazlul Islam expressed how the new arrangements have restricted their movement.

He stated, "We used to move around peacefully. Now, there's always the fear of being beaten by the BSF if we go out to work. Even using the Tin Bigha Corridor for markets has become quite difficult."

Challenges in Farming

Border-area farmer Ashraful Islam reported that the fencing near the zero line has also disrupted their farming activities. "We have to return home before evening. We are always in fear of what might happen. The BSF’s lights and cameras are damaging our crops," he said.

BSF Surveillance and Its Impact

The BSF has installed high-powered lights across the border at night, which has been causing psychological stress for the locals. Additionally, cameras have been set up for surveillance, leading to complaints from the residents about privacy violations.

A resident remarked, "The lights are directed towards us, which damages our crops. And the cameras are monitoring our every move."

Changed Scenario Post-August 5

Locals noted an increase in BSF activity in Dahgram following the government change in Bangladesh on August 5. Former Dahgram Union Chairman Kamal Hossain Pradhan mentioned, "Earlier, the BSF would fence certain problematic areas. Now, they are leaving no area untouched. Such fencing is a source of fear for us."

Bangladesh-India Agreement and the Current Context

Under a 2010 agreement between Bangladesh and India, India was permitted to fence along the zero line in Dahgram. However, while this agreement remained unimplemented for a long time, the BSF has recently initiated fencing and surveillance activities, changing the dynamics of the area.