Authorities in Bihar have significantly heightened security along the state's border with Nepal. This move is a preventive measure following reports of communal unrest in two neighboring Nepalese districts. The tensions there were sparked by incidents of vandalism and a controversial social media post.
Security Measures Ramped Up in Champaran Districts
The districts of East Champaran (Motihari) and West Champaran (Bettiah) in Bihar are at the forefront of this security enhancement. While clarifying that the border at Raxaul has not been sealed, senior police officials confirmed a major increase in vigilance. Harkishor Rai, the DIG of the Champaran range, stated that heavy patrolling is underway and all police stations adjacent to the border are on high alert. The goal is to monitor cross-border movement closely and prevent any potential infiltration of troublemakers.
Bihar Police have deployed additional forces to the sensitive border areas. One company each of the Bihar Special Armed Police (BSAP) has been assigned to Motihari and Bettiah. Separate patrolling teams have been formed for reinforced surveillance and to ensure a rapid response to any incident. Despite the heightened state of readiness, the situation on the Indian side remains normal and under control.
SSB Maintains Strong Presence on the Border
The primary border guarding force, the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), continues its regular deployment with enhanced patrolling. Four SSB battalions are operational across the two Bihar districts, supported by approximately 90 border outposts. Existing personnel have been tasked with increased vigilance to track any unusual movement across the frontier. Coordination between district administrations in Bihar and the border security forces is being closely maintained.
Root of the Tension in Nepal
The security alert was triggered by events in Nepal's Dhanusha and Parsa districts. The unrest began after a mosque was vandalized in the Sakhuwa Maran area of Kamala municipality in Dhanusha district. According to reports, this act of vandalism was itself a reaction to a viral video. The video, allegedly posted by two local youths, contained content deemed offensive to religious sentiments, which ignited the communal flare-up.
While Nepalese authorities may have restricted movement from their side, no curfew has been officially imposed by Indian authorities in the bordering districts. The proactive steps by Bihar Police and the SSB aim to ensure that the tensions do not spill over into Indian territory, maintaining peace and stability in the region.
