BJP Meghalaya Unit Raises Alarm Over Rising "Radical Influence" in Bangladesh, Warns of Northeast Security Risks

The Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) Meghalaya unit has expressed grave concerns about the growing sway of radical Islamist elements in Bangladesh, warning that it could create significant security threats for India's northeastern states.

Party spokesperson Mariahom Kharkrang highlighted provocative remarks from certain Bangladeshi circles suggesting the separation of the Northeast from India, describing them as "highly alarming" and deserving of immediate scrutiny. He contrasted the current situation with past regimes in Dhaka, which fostered cordial ties with New Delhi and even helped dismantle insurgent camps operating in the region.

While noting no signs of imminent unrest in the Northeast, Kharkrang emphasised the dangers of operating in a radicalised neighbourhood. He called for enhanced border controls, closing vulnerabilities, and preventing unauthorised crossings. Unlike the Jammu and Kashmir frontier, which benefits from substantial Army deployment, Meghalaya's stretch along the India-Bangladesh border is primarily secured by the Border Security Force (BSF), he pointed out, advocating for heightened BSF alertness and joint efforts between state and central authorities to maintain regional tranquillity.

Shillong Member of Parliament Ricky A.J. Syngkon had previously underscored the direct impact of Bangladesh's developments on Meghalaya, which shares a 443-kilometre international border—much of it porous—with the neighbour. Syngkon described repeated cases of unlawful entries as a critical signal for authorities and citizens alike, stressing that such issues recur and demand serious attention.

He also noted the economic vulnerabilities for a border-dependent state like Meghalaya, where illicit transboundary activities deplete resources and cause substantial revenue shortfalls. Despite commendations for the BSF and other forces, Syngkon acknowledged the difficulties in constant monitoring due to the border's extensive length and challenging topography.

In response to evolving threats, central intelligence agencies have intensified monitoring along India's eastern borders, fearing that Bangladesh's instability could be exploited by adversarial forces to disrupt the Northeast. The BSF, Meghalaya Police, and allied agencies remain on elevated alert, prompted by reports of escalating extremist discourse and anti-India sentiments in parts of Bangladesh.

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