In his first major act as the Chief Minister of West Bengal, BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari has moved to secure the international border with Bangladesh. The new administration announced on Monday that land required for border fencing will be handed over to the Border Security Force (BSF) within the next 45 days.
The decision was formalized during the maiden cabinet meeting of the BJP government, which assumed power following a landmark electoral victory.
Priority on Border Security
The cabinet, led by Chief Minister Adhikari, approved six key resolutions during its first session. Topping the agenda was the transfer of land to the BSF to facilitate the construction of barbed-wire fencing, a move aimed at curbing illegal infiltration and enhancing national security.
The BJP’s campaign centered heavily on the issues of border security and the repatriation of illegal immigrants. The party had frequently accused the outgoing Trinamool Congress (TMC) government of leaving the international borders vulnerable for political gain.
45-Day Deadline
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, CM Suvendu Adhikari emphasized the urgency of the project, citing concerns over shifting state demographics.
"On our very first day in office, we have approved the transfer of land to the Union Home Ministry and the BSF. The Land and Revenue Secretary and the Chief Secretary have been tasked with overseeing this. The BSF will receive the land within the stipulated 45 days," Adhikari stated.
West Bengal shares over 2,216 km of the total 4,096.70 km India-Bangladesh border, making it a critical zone for security operations.
A Political Shift
The BJP’s rise to power follows a decisive victory in the recent Assembly elections, where the party secured 207 of the 294 seats, ending 15 years of TMC dominance. Suvendu Adhikari was named the state's first BJP Chief Minister on May 9, following a campaign that focused on voter list rectifications and internal security.
