Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Aug 7: The Intelligence Bureau (IB) has issued a high-alert warning ahead of Independence Day, flagging a potential terror threat originating from Bangladesh. Security agencies have been directed to increase vigilance, particularly in the northeastern states and West Bengal, amid fears that terror groups may attempt attacks using the eastern border route.
The alert comes amid concerns about deteriorating security in Bangladesh following the rise of a Jamaat-e-Islami-backed government under Muhammad Yunus. Intelligence sources indicate that this shift has enabled terror outfits—particularly the Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB), Harkat-ul-Jihadi Islami (HuJI), and Ansarullah Bangla Team (ABT)—to regroup and revive operations.
According to the IB, Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) is leveraging the current situation in Bangladesh to reroute its focus from the heavily guarded India-Pakistan border. The ISI has allegedly sent officers to assist and train militants in Bangladesh, encouraging them to plan a "spectacular" attack to destabilise India and uplift demoralised terror cadres in the region.
Intelligence assessments point to a renewed interest among Bangladesh-based groups in targeting Indian soil, particularly as they are familiar with areas like Assam and West Bengal, where past sleeper cells have operated. The JMB is considered the most significant threat due to its established networks in these states.
Adding to the challenge is the rise in illegal immigration attempts. Security agencies suspect that terrorists may exploit this route to infiltrate India. The situation in neighbouring Myanmar is also under close watch as instability there could further complicate regional security.
As a preventive measure, Indian security officials are not taking any chances. On August 5, five Bangladeshi nationals were apprehended near the Red Fort—a high-security zone closed to the public since July 15. Though initial questioning found no direct links to terrorism, authorities confirmed the individuals had entered India illegally. Deportation proceedings have begun.
Security forces across the eastern corridor have been placed on very high alert, and central agencies are closely monitoring cross-border activities to prevent any potential threat in the lead-up to August 15.