Former CM Biplab Deb demands renovation of border fencing in Tripura

Former Tripura CM Biplab Kumar Deb urges renovation and completion of border fencing amid security concerns along Bangladesh border.

Former Tripura Chief Minister and Lok Sabha MP Biplab Kumar Deb has expressed concern over the dilapidated condition of the old barbed wire fencing along the Bangladesh border in Tripura. He believes that the old and rusting fencing may be exploited by vested interests during the current “disturbed” law and order situation in Bangladesh.

Tripura shares an 856 km border with Bangladesh and the recent collapse of the Sheikh Hasina government has brought the State into the spotlight due to security concerns.

In a letter to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Mr. Deb has also requested the completion of fencing along a small stretch of the border that has been left out. The letter, released by the ex-CM’s office on Wednesday, states that there are no issues with land acquisition anywhere to complete the fencing work.

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Mr. Deb has drawn the Home Minister’s attention to the slow pace of construction in the remaining 26.64 km and has urged early completion of the work. He has also requested the renovation of the old border fence.

Mr. Deb, who has been recently appointed as a member of the Consultative Committee of the Home Ministry expressed concern about the possibility of vested interests taking advantage of the porous border given the disturbed law and order situation in Bangladesh.

He has also highlighted the need for an increase in the strength of the Border Security Force to better guard the borders and prevent any adverse impact on Tripura due to the current situation in Bangladesh.