BSF's contradictory statement sparks controversy amidst border dispute

AGARTALA: The Border Security Force (BSF) has come under scrutiny for issuing contradictory statements concerning the illegal construction of a dam near Tripura-Bangladesh border, raising questions about its stance.

The issue gained traction following a meeting between Tripura Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha and Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi to address key concerns affecting the state, including this contentious construction on Saturday.

During the meeting, Dr Saha presented a comprehensive letter to Home Minister, emphasizing the potential adverse effects of the dam being built in Sharifpur, Sylhet Division, Bangladesh, close to the Kailashahar border in Unakoti District.

The Chief Minister's letter highlighted the risks posed to Tripura’s water resources, ecological balance, and border stability. However, BSF’s response in the evening has raised eyebrows.

In a statement, BSF contradicted the concerns raised by the state government, asserting that the "construction" in question is an old elevated kacha track located within Bangladeshi territory.

According to BSF, the track connects the villages of Sharipur and Devipur and is utilized for pedestrian, bicycle, and autorickshaw movement.

The statement directly undermines earlier reports and has sparked allegations of BSF creating undue pressure on the media to downplay the issue.

The controversy has led to heightened tensions between various stakeholders, with the public and media questioning the BSF’s motives and transparency.

The issue also raised concerns over coordination and communication between the state government and central agencies in addressing border challenges.