CM Mamata Banerjee Accuses Centre and BSF of Facilitating Infiltration from Bangladesh, Calls It an Inside Job

Kolkata (The Uttam Hindu): West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has accused the Centre and the Border Security Force (BSF) of facilitating infiltration from neighboring Bangladesh. She alleged that such activities could not occur without the involvement of the central government. Suvendu Adhikari countered her claims by accusing the state government of obstructing the Centre’s efforts and failing to cooperate with the BSF, including releasing intruders arrested by the security forces.

Mamata Banerjee's Allegations

Blaming the Centre and the BSF, Banerjee claimed that infiltrators are entering from Bangladesh with the support of the security forces. “They are sending goons. People are coming, killing, and going back through the borders. This is an inside job by the BSF,” she alleged. She further accused the central government of being complicit, calling it a part of their blueprint. "This cannot happen without the central government’s blueprint. I have repeatedly told the Centre that we will cooperate with any measures they take. However, if I find anyone supporting terrorism that affects my state, we will protest," the Chief Minister said.

Suvendu Adhikari's Counterclaims

Responding to these allegations, Suvendu Adhikari accused the West Bengal government of hindering efforts to strengthen border security. He highlighted the lack of cooperation, stating, “Joint meetings are not being held, there is no coordination with central agencies, and the state police released 1,500 intruders arrested by the BSF last year and 1,000 this year." Adhikari also pointed out delays in land acquisition for 17 BSF outposts and criticized the state assembly for passing resolutions against the BSF. “The additional DGP in charge of West Bengal is openly condemning the BSF. Such politics should be avoided for the sake of the country and the Bengali community,” he said.

Border Security Challenges

Adhikari explained that West Bengal shares a 2,216.7 km international border with Bangladesh, of which 1,647.446 km has been fenced. However, fencing is pending for 569.254 km. He revealed that in 18 cases covering 72.979 km, land has not been handed over to the BSF.

Adhikari also alleged delays in filing FIRs by the state police. “Police often refuse to lodge FIRs for BSF officials, claiming the BSF lacks jurisdiction in the hinterland, ignoring that the Government of India has extended the BSF’s jurisdiction up to 50 km from the international border in several states, including West Bengal,” he stated. The debate over border security continues to fuel tensions between the Centre and the West Bengal government.