Tension and heightened vigilance continue along the Benapole border in Sharsha upazila of Jessore, despite a reported decline in fears of alleged push-in attempts by the Indian Border Security Force (BSF). Although no fresh incidents have been reported in recent days, Bangladesh Border Guard (BGB) has intensified security following intelligence reports that a large number of people have been gathered across the border.
In response, BGB has deployed nearly double the usual number of personnel in the Benapole frontier. Surveillance, patrol operations and intelligence monitoring have also been significantly strengthened in sensitive border areas to prevent any potential incidents.
On Tuesday (9 June), visits to several border-adjacent locations including Sadipur, Daulatpur, Putkhali, Kagajpukur and Ghiba revealed that BGB personnel were maintaining continuous patrols and security oversight. Night patrols have also been increased, while residents in bordering villages have been observed cooperating with security forces by sharing information.
Summary of Border Situation
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Troop deployment | Nearly double usual BGB personnel |
| Key monitored areas | Sadipur, Daulatpur, Putkhali, Kagajpukur, Ghiba |
| Recent incident | Attempted push-in on 31 May, later contained |
| Subsequent development | Individuals removed from zero line on 2 June night |
Local sources reported that on the night of 31 May, attempts were made to push women and children, along with other individuals, into Bangladesh through the Sadipur border area. Intelligence inputs had earlier indicated that around 100 to 120 people had been assembled on the opposite side of the border. Following confirmation, BGB took positions and successfully prevented the attempted push-in, forcing the group to remain in the zero line.
Residents further stated that the group spent nearly two days in difficult conditions at the zero line, facing extreme heat, lack of drinking water, and food shortages. Women and children were particularly affected. The group was reportedly moved away from the zero line by the BSF on the night of 2 June.
The incident created significant concern in the border region, prompting local residents to support BGB through voluntary vigilance and nighttime monitoring. They also assisted by reporting suspicious movements to the border force.
Local resident Sagar Hossain stated that after learning about the prevention of the push-in attempt, villagers began staying near the border to support security efforts. Another resident, Jasim Uddin, said that border security is not only the responsibility of the forces but also of citizens.
Businessman Polash Ahmed noted that the situation initially created anxiety among local traders, but rapid action by BGB helped prevent escalation. Another trader, Shariful Islam, said maintaining stability at the border is essential for trade and commerce.
Benapole ICP camp commander Subedar Mizan Hossain stated that intelligence reports indicated a large number of people had been gathered at holding points across the border. In response, troop deployment was increased and surveillance intensified.
Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Saiful Islam, commanding officer of the Jessore-49 BGB Battalion, said that no new push-in incidents are currently occurring and the situation remains under control, though strict vigilance continues.
He added that any attempt to forcibly push individuals across the border must follow international legal and diplomatic procedures, and unilateral action is not acceptable under any circumstances.