UPSC-Relevant News Items

1. 'Threat to India Very Real' Amidst Political Instability and Islamist Rise in Bangladesh

Page: 2

Summary:

• • The political crisis follows the ban on the Awami League (AL) from elections, leading to a "rigged election" scenario favoring Islamist groups.
• • Serious security concerns arise from the interim government's proximity to Pakistan and reports of active LeT/Al Qaeda operatives and training camps.
• • This instability poses a "very real" threat to India by risking the revival of cross-border insurgency operations from Bangladesh territory.
• • The rise of extremism risks a significant influx of refugees into neighboring Indian states, particularly West Bengal and Assam, exacerbating demographic tensions and straining local resources.
• • The instability jeopardizes India's economic and connectivity projects under the 'Act East Policy,' affecting shared infrastructure and trade routes.

Additional Facts:

• • The Border Security Force (BSF), operating under the MHA, enforces comprehensive border management through fencing, surveillance, and coordinated patrolling along the India-Bangladesh border to curb cross-border infiltration and arms smuggling.
• • Intelligence gathered by the Multi-Agency Centre (MAC) is used by state police forces and central agencies to utilize provisions under the UAPA for prosecuting terror suspects linked to foreign groups like LeT/Al Qaeda.

Linkage with UPSC course:

• • General

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