AGARTALA: The Border Security Force (BSF) has come under scrutiny for issuing contradictory statements over the illegal construction of a dam near the Tripura-Bangladesh border, raising questions about its stance.
The issue gained strength after a meeting between Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha and Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi to address major concerns plaguing the state, including this controversial construction, on Saturday.
During the meeting, Dr Saha submitted a comprehensive letter to the Home Minister, emphasizing the possible adverse effects of the dam being constructed at Sharifpur, Sylhet Division, Bangladesh, near the Kailashahar border in Unakoti district.
The Chief Minister’s letter highlighted the risks posed to water resources, ecological balance and border stability of Tripura. However, BSF’s response tonight has raised eyebrows.
In a statement, BSF contradicted concerns raised by the state government, stating that the “construction” in question is an old elevated kacha track located within the territory of Bangladesh.
According to BSF, the road connects Sharipur and Devipur villages and is used for pedestrian, bicycle and autorickshaw movement.
The statement directly undermines previous reports and has sparked accusations that BSF is putting undue pressure on the media to downplay the issue.
The controversy has raised tensions between various stakeholders, with the public and media questioning the motives and transparency of the BSF.
The issue also raised concerns over coordination and communication between the state government and central agencies to address border challenges.