Security agencies have raised alarm along the Assam–West Bengal border.
Dhubri district is under close watch.
The alert stems from intelligence of jihadi and fundamentalist infiltration via Bangladesh.
Agencies are also investigating a fake-currency trafficking nexus.
Heightened tension at ‘Chicken’s Neck’
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma flagged risks targeting the key “Chicken’s Neck” corridor.
This 22-km link is vital for Northeast India’s connectivity.
Wall graffiti and literature urging loyalty to Bangladesh worry security officials.
In response, the Border Security Force (BSF) has increased surveillance.
Efforts to detect and deny infiltration attempts have intensified..
Fake-currency racket under scrutiny
Recent seizures of fake Indian currency (FICN) underscore the seriousness of the threat.
On September 3, in Malda, BSF recovered counterfeit ₹1,99,500 worth of ₹500 notes, allegedly tossed across the border.
Malda is considered a major hub for fake-currency trafficking from Bangladesh.
Assam’s resolute deportation record
Since 2024, Assam has deported over 450 Bangladeshi infiltrators.
In the past week alone, 33 more were pushed back.
The state invoked the Immigrants (Expulsion from Assam) Act, 1950 to detain and remove them swiftly.
Separating truth from politicisation
The Assam CM emphasized that these efforts target infiltration not its own citizens.
He rebutted claims by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee suggesting Assam was dividing people.
He cited the Supreme Court calling such infiltration “external aggression”.
Why this matters now
India’s porous eastern frontier continues to face multifaceted threats.
Counterfeit currency undermines economic stability and funds criminal networks.
Psychological operations, such as pro-Bangladesh propaganda near Chicken’s Neck, threaten local loyalty and national unity.
Security experts warn that FICN is sometimes termed “economic terrorism.”
High-quality counterfeits are believed to be printed abroad and smuggled in via border districts like Malda and Kaliachak.
What’s next
- SIT Investigations: A Special Investigation Team (SIT) is probing connections to jihadi groups and counterfeit cash routes.
A report might link individuals with foreign ties to infiltration networks. - Community engagement: Alert citizens must report suspicious movements, graffiti, or literature promoting divisive ideologies.
- Coordination between states: Joint action by Assam, West Bengal, and central agencies—including BSF, state police, and ED—remains critical.
Call to Action
The Assam-Bengal border situation demands public vigilance and civic cooperation.
If you observe suspicious activity such as unusual crowds, poster campaigns, or currency trading report it to local law enforcement immediately.
Together, we can safeguard national security and support our agencies’ efforts.
| Issue | Measure Taken |
|---|---|
| Jihadi infiltration | Increased BSF vigilance, SIT probe, deportations |
| Fake currency trafficking | BSF seizures, identifying hubs like Malda and Kaliachak |
| Propaganda threats | Monitoring of Chicken’s Neck, counter-intelligence efforts |
| Political narrative | Assam CM emphasizes focus on security—not targeting citizens |