Tripura Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha on Friday said that the Government of India is closely monitoring the evolving situation in Bangladesh, marked by a growing anti-India movement and violence against minorities, and is fully prepared to counter any eventuality at the border under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Reacting to questions from reporters on the sidelines of a programme for distribution of certificates to Graded Artists and students who passed out from the Tripura Film & Television Institute (TFTI) at Rabindra Satabarshiki Bhavan, the Chief Minister asserted that India’s security apparatus is strong and technologically advanced.
Dr Saha said the present era is one of technological warfare, where conflicts are no longer dependent solely on physical troop presence at the borders.
“This is the age of drone technology. Wars can be fought remotely from home, and India is well prepared to face and counter any situation,” he said.
Referring to developments in Bangladesh, the Chief Minister remarked that the situation there took a clear turn after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was compelled to leave the country.
“It became obvious which direction the nation was heading. Subsequently, criminals, militants, thieves and dacoits were freed as jail doors were opened, making such instability inevitable,” he claimed.
Dr Saha, however, underlined that Bangladesh is an international matter and all developments are being reported to the central government in accordance with established norms. “I can assure that we are very strong in maintaining security and guarding our borders,” he said.
He added that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Union Cabinet are fully aware of the situation and will take all necessary steps at the appropriate time if necessary. “Whatever is required will be done. Time will speak,” the Chief Minister stated.
Highlighting India’s growing defence capabilities, Dr Saha referred to a recent drone show organised by the Indian Army at the Assam Rifles ground, saying it offered a glimpse of advanced technology and air defence systems now available with the armed forces.
India shares a border of over 4,000 km with Bangladesh, spanning several states, including Tripura, which is surrounded by the neighbouring country on three sides and has an 856-km-long international border.
