Guwahati: Assam has been placed on high alert following renewed unrest in neighbouring Bangladesh, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said on Monday, asserting that the state administration is closely tracking developments across the border.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of an official programme, Sarma claimed that members of the Hindu community in Bangladesh were facing violence amid the current turmoil. He also alleged that certain elements in the neighbouring country had made irresponsible remarks about incorporating parts of northeast India into Bangladesh.
The chief minister stressed the need for heightened vigilance, stating that Assam has witnessed cross-border movement from Bangladesh at various points in history and that any instability there could have security implications for the state. He said authorities must remain alert to prevent any spillover effects.
Sarma reiterated his earlier remarks that suggestions of merging northeast India with Bangladesh were dangerous and unacceptable. He underlined India’s geopolitical standing, calling it a major global power and a nuclear nation, and said such statements would not be taken lightly.
Bangladesh has seen fresh protests following the death of student leader Sharif Osman Hadi, who was among the prominent faces of the anti-government movement that led to the fall of the Sheikh Hasina-led administration. The situation has raised concerns in bordering Indian states.
Meanwhile, officials said prohibitory orders have been imposed along the India-Bangladesh border in Assam’s Cachar district as a precautionary measure. The restrictions aim to curb illegal movement and maintain law and order in sensitive areas along the international boundary.
