Calcutta High Court Directs Bengal Government to Transfer Land to BSF for Border Security Project
The Calcutta High Court has issued a significant order, directing the West Bengal government to hand over specific land parcels to the Border Security Force (BSF) by March 31. This directive pertains to land earmarked and paid for by the Union government across nine border districts in the state. The land is intended for a critical project aimed at securing the porous India-Bangladesh boundary through barbed-wire fencing.
PIL Highlights National Security Concerns Over Unfenced Border Stretches
The court's order came in response to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by former Deputy Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Subrata Saha (retired). In his petition, Lt Gen Saha flagged what he described as a "grave threat" to national security due to unfenced stretches along the international border in West Bengal. The PIL emphasized the urgent need for enhanced border security measures to prevent illegal crossings and other security breaches.
Court's Previous Hearing and State's Response
During a previous hearing, a division bench comprising Chief Justice Sujoy Paul and Justice Partha Sarathi Sen had sought clarity from the state government. The bench asked the principal secretary of the West Bengal land acquisition department to file an affidavit detailing the status of the pending land transfer. This step was taken to assess the delays and ensure compliance with the Union government's requirements for the border fencing project.
Legal Scrutiny on Land Acquisition Under Relevant Laws
The Calcutta High Court is also set to deliberate on whether the border land can be legally acquired under existing laws. This aspect of the case adds a layer of legal complexity, as it involves interpreting statutes related to land acquisition and national security. The court's decision on this matter could have broader implications for similar projects in other border states.
The directive underscores the ongoing efforts to fortify India's borders, particularly in regions with high permeability. The barbed-wire fencing project is seen as a vital component in enhancing border security and preventing unauthorized movements. The March 31 deadline imposed by the court highlights the urgency of addressing these security concerns promptly.
This development comes amid increasing focus on border infrastructure and security measures across India. The collaboration between state and central governments is crucial for the successful implementation of such projects, which aim to safeguard national interests and maintain territorial integrity.
