Thu Feb 20 06:49:43 UTC 2025: ## Bangladesh, India Downplay Border Tensions in High-Level Talks

**DHAKA/NEW DELHI, Feb 20, 2025** – High-level talks between the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and the Border Security Force (BSF) have concluded, with both sides downplaying recent tensions along their shared border. BGB chief Maj Gen Mohammad Ashrafuzzaman Siddiqui dismissed recent reports of attacks on minorities in Bangladesh as exaggerated, highlighting the peaceful conduct of Durga Puja celebrations near the border. He also addressed ongoing disputes over border fencing, stating that neither country is permitted to construct permanent structures within 150 yards of the boundary and that communication breakdowns often occur when this rule is violated. Siddiqui emphasized Bangladesh’s call for greater consultation and joint discussions before further fencing takes place in the no-man’s-land. He confirmed that the 1975 border alignment agreement remains unchanged.

BSF Director General Daljit Singh Chawdhary reiterated the force’s preparedness to secure the border, citing sufficient personnel and advanced surveillance technology. The BSF statement released last week indicated that the bi-annual meeting aimed to improve coordination and address issues such as attacks on BSF personnel and civilians, trans-border crimes, and the construction of single-row fences.

The 4,096 km border, stretching across five Indian states, remains a point of ongoing discussion. Both sides committed to continued dialogue to resolve outstanding issues and strengthen cooperation. The last such meeting was held in Dhaka in March 2024.

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