The Border Security Force (BSF) plans to urge for the relocation of zero-line villages in West Bengal to enhance the management of the Indo-Bangladesh Border (IBB). This initiative, long pursued by the BSF, is anticipated to gain momentum with the recent change in the state government. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has been actively involved in this pursuit for years, offering adequate compensation for the relocation of these villages.
Zero-line villages, situated within 150 yards of the International Border, pose challenges for border fencing, hindering effective border management. These isolated villages lack access to emergency services at night due to locked fence gates, leaving residents vulnerable to criminal activities. With approximately 360 such villages in West Bengal, mainly in districts like Malda, Murshidabad, and Cooch Behar, the need for relocation is crucial for improved border security.
The presence of zero-line villages complicates border fencing efforts, enabling criminals to exploit these areas for illegal activities like smuggling and human trafficking. The proximity of these settlements to the border necessitates heightened surveillance, straining resources and manpower. Officials are optimistic that the relocation process will be completed in the coming years, alleviating security concerns along the Indo-Bangladesh Border.
