Daijiworld Media Network – Kolkata

Kolkata, Sep 16: The political rivalry between West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s Trinamool Congress and the BJP-led Centre has taken a back seat as both sides close ranks over heightened security along the Nepal border amid political turmoil in the Himalayan nation.

West Bengal shares over 100 km of border with Nepal, including the sensitive Siliguri “chicken’s neck” corridor. Even after the formation of an interim government in Kathmandu under Sushila Karki following Gen Z protests, India has maintained the tightened vigil introduced last week.

“These are issues of national interest… there is no Trinamool–BJP rift on security. We are united,” Banerjee affirmed. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during a recent state visit, avoided any mention of political differences.

In a first, a joint meeting of corps commanders was held at Fort William, headquarters of the Eastern Command, attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. Security measures include increased Border Security Force deployment, additional army presence, and coordinated surveillance by Sashastra Seema Bal and state police at the Panitanki bridge.

The state’s intelligence wing shares regular reports with the Prime Minister’s Office and NSA. Chinese currency circulation in Kathmandu has raised concerns of Beijing’s influence, sources said, even as India-China ties improved following the recent SCO meet.

Governor C V Ananda Bose inspected fencing and security posts at Phasidewa on Wednesday despite Mamata Banerjee’s caution over security risks. The Chief Minister directed state police to ensure full arrangements for the visit.