BSF steps up vigil along Bengal border amid Bangladesh elections

Security has been intensified along the India-Bangladesh international border in West Bengal as Bangladesh goes to polls for its parliamentary elections. The Border Security Force (BSF) has deployed additional personnel across the entire border stretch and heightened patrolling, maintaining special alertness since Wednesday night.

A high alert has been issued from the coastal regions of the Sundarbans to the northern border districts. Special surveillance measures have been implemented in sensitive and highly sensitive areas amid concerns that any violence or instability during the elections could trigger attempts by criminals or suspicious elements to cross into Indian territory.

The BSF has increased patrol teams in riverine and difficult terrains, with particular focus on forested and coastal belts adjoining the Sundarbans. Advanced technology is being used for round-the-clock monitoring, including thermal imagers, night vision devices, drones and CCTV cameras. Officials said the frequency of patrolling has been stepped up to prevent infiltration and illegal activities.

The force is working in coordination with the local administration and other security agencies. Residents of border villages have been urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements immediately. The election is being seen as significant, as it is the first general election in Bangladesh after the ousting of Sheikh Hasina from power.