Is Tripura No Longer a Safe Zone for Infiltrators?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Tripura is enhancing border security to prevent illegal infiltrations.
- Coordination among security agencies is crucial for effective monitoring.
- Recent political changes in Bangladesh have led to increased vigilance.
- Fake identification documents are being actively targeted.
- Legal provisions are in place to deal with infiltrators.
Agartala, July 3 (NationPress) Tripura's Chief Minister Manik Saha declared on Thursday that infiltrators from Bangladesh have acknowledged that this bordering state is no longer a safe haven for them.
The Chief Minister emphasized that from the outset, following directives from the government, all security agencies are on heightened alert to thwart illegal infiltrators from crossing into India.
“Since the unrest in Bangladesh and the collapse of the previous Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina-led Awami League government in August of last year, security forces have been closely monitoring the border to prevent any infiltration attempts,” Saha, who also serves as the Home Minister, informed the press.
He stated that it is now impossible for individuals to enter Tripura and establish residency using counterfeit Aadhaar cards.
Recently, the Chief Minister convened meetings with senior officials from various security agencies, including the BSF, urging them to closely coordinate in addressing border issues and related developments, especially in light of the tensions between India and Pakistan.
Saha further asserted that should any infiltrators manage to enter Indian (Tripura) territory, they will be repelled in accordance with legal provisions.
The ruling BJP's ally, the Tipra Motha Party (TMP), led by former royal scion Pradyot Bikram Manikya Debbarma, has recently launched an extensive anti-infiltration campaign throughout the state.
Senior TMP leader and Minister for Forest and Environment, Animesh Debbama, stated that no infiltrators will be permitted to remain in Tripura.
According to BSF officials, the paramilitary forces have increased vigilance and heightened their presence along the International Border since violence broke out in Bangladesh in June-July of last year, particularly after the fall of Sheikh Hasina's government on August 5.
Tripura, sharing an 856 km border with Bangladesh, is flanked by the neighboring country on three sides, rendering the northeastern state particularly vulnerable to cross-border migration challenges.
Most of the border has been fenced, with some exceptions, to deter smuggling, trans-border crimes, and illegal movements by infiltrators and hostile entities.
Meanwhile, security forces in Tripura and other northeastern states have intensified efforts to identify Bangladeshi nationals, Rohingyas, and foreign individuals residing illegally in Indian territories, following directives from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).