SHILLONG: As Bangladesh prepares for its 13th General Election on February 12, Meghalaya has intensified security along the international border, transforming sensitive frontier areas into high-alert zones.
State authorities, in coordination with the Border Security Force (BSF), have launched a coordinated security operation to prevent infiltration, smuggling, and cross-border disturbances during the sensitive period.
Superintendent of Police Vivek Syiem said preparations began as early as December following high-level review meetings with Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma.
“We are on full alert. Since December, we have intensified patrolling both day and night. This is a multi-purpose mission — not just to prevent infiltration, but also to curb theft, smuggling, and other crimes that could exploit the election period,” Syiem stated.
Security measures have been ramped up in critical border locations including Mawsynram, Shella and Pynursla.
Police stations in these areas have been converted into operational nerve centres to monitor developments in real time.
Authorities have deployed:
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Forward Tactical Teams: Special units conducting surprise and random patrols close to the international boundary.
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Joint Operations with BSF: Seamless coordination at Integrated Check Posts (ICPs) to ensure no security gaps.
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Mobile Check Posts: Set up across multiple police jurisdictions to increase vigilance and vehicle screening.
In a significant move, police have strengthened collaboration with Village Defence Parties (VDPs), leveraging their local knowledge and rapid response capabilities.
SP Syiem praised the VDPs for acting as the first line of alert in remote areas, providing real-time intelligence on suspicious movements and even preventing incidents of unrest in recent months.
“We are working hand in hand with our VDPs. Strengthening this partnership is essential to keeping our borders secure,” he said.
With Bangladesh’s elections drawing global attention, Meghalaya authorities have stressed that the current security framework aims not only to prevent infiltration but also to deter smuggling networks and criminal elements attempting to exploit the situation.
Officials confirmed that surveillance, night patrolling, and coordination between state and central forces will remain heightened throughout the election period.
