Accusations Against BSF and Central Forces
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee accused the Border Security Force (BSF), which guards the India-Bangladesh border, of enabling infiltration and torturing women. Speaking at an administrative meeting, Banerjee claimed that the BSF's alleged actions were destabilizing Bengal. This controversy arises ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections, intensifying the political rivalry between the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Banerjee’s comments came weeks after Union Home Minister Amit Shah highlighted infiltration from Bangladesh as a key factor disrupting peace in West Bengal.
Banerjee’s Response to Infiltration Allegations
Banerjee refuted allegations that her party, the TMC, was complicit in allowing infiltration. She stated:
"The BSF is allowing infiltration from different areas into Bengal and torturing women. The TMC is not guarding the borders. The border is not in our hands, so if someone accuses the TMC of permitting infiltration, I will point out that it is the BSF's responsibility."
She also instructed the Director General of Police (DGP) to investigate the alleged infiltration points and pledged to write a strong letter to the central government regarding the matter.
Calls for Peace and Warnings to the Centre
Stressing her commitment to maintaining peace in Bengal and neighboring Bangladesh, Banerjee criticized the alleged criminal activities enabled by the BSF.
"We have no enmity, but goons are being allowed here. They commit crimes and return across the border. BSF is enabling this, and the Centre has a role in it."
She warned the central government of potential protests if attempts were made to fuel terror activities in Bengal.
Porous Borders and Smuggling Concerns
India and Bangladesh share a 4,096-kilometer border, much of which remains unfenced, leaving it vulnerable to infiltration and smuggling. Investigations by India Today have highlighted how these porous stretches facilitate such activities.
BJP’s Counterattack: "Bengal a Nursery for Infiltration"
Union Minister Giriraj Singh strongly countered Banerjee’s claims, accusing her of enabling Bangladeshi infiltration for political gains.
"Whoever is being caught is a Bangladeshi, and most of their addresses are from Bengal. Mamata didi is doing all this out of greed for votes, turning Bengal into a gateway for Bangladeshi Muslims and Rohingyas. Meanwhile, atrocities against Hindus in Bangladesh are happening, and the whole world is witnessing this," Singh said.
The political tug-of-war over infiltration continues to dominate the discourse, adding another layer of complexity to the already charged political landscape in West Bengal.
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