Jaipur: Union Home Minister Amit Shah has ordered the demolition of all unauthorised structures within a 15-kilometre radius of the India-Pakistan border in Rajasthan, directing authorities to intensify actions against infiltration, narcotics smuggling, terrorist financing, and other cross-border crime networks.
High-Level Security Review Meeting in Bikaner
Chairing a high-level security review meeting in Bikaner on Tuesday, Shah assessed security arrangements across Rajasthan’s five border districts: Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Barmer, Sriganganagar, and Phalodi. The meeting was attended by Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, senior state officials, district magistrates, and superintendents of police.
Zero-Tolerance Policy on Illegal Construction
Shah called for strict enforcement of a “zero-tolerance policy” regarding illegal construction near the international border and directed officials to clear the entire 0-15 kilometre belt, according to officials. Authorities stated that the exercise aims to curb illegal activity and strengthen surveillance across sensitive border zones.
360-Degree Security Framework
The meeting also cleared plans for a “360-degree security framework” for frontier districts, involving residents, state agencies, and central forces to tighten integrated border management. Shah ordered closer coordination among the Border Security Force (BSF), Narcotics Control Bureau, Central Board of Direct Taxes, and state authorities to tackle infiltration, drug trafficking, encroachment, smuggling, fake Aadhaar cards, mule bank accounts, and shell companies allegedly linked to terrorist funding and economic offences.
District magistrates were asked to ensure banks comply with financial regulations and verify the funding sources of major business establishments operating in border areas. Officials were also directed to monitor emerging crime patterns and networks tied to narcotics and organised smuggling.
Cybercrime Helpline and Criminal Laws
Shah stressed wider use of the cybercrime helpline ‘1930’ for swift disposal of complaints and pushed for full implementation of three new criminal laws to strengthen policing and judicial processes.
Vibrant Village Programme-II
The meeting also reviewed the implementation of the Vibrant Village Programme-II, aimed at improving infrastructure, governance, and welfare delivery in border villages. “Hundred per cent saturation of all government schemes in border villages was reiterated during the meeting,” an official release said.
