Blueprint on BSF's extended powers ready, MHA nod next

New Delhi, June 12

To implement the enhanced jurisdictional powers of the Border Security Force (BSF), a blueprint on its logistical requirements with regard to various frontier states has been finalised and would soon be submitted to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) for its consideration, officials said.

The BSF, mandated to guard India’s western (with Pakistan) and eastern (with Bangladesh) frontiers having a length of over 6,300 km, has now been mandated to take action within 50 km inside the borders. The Union Government had, in October 2021, issued a notification, amending a July 2014 enabling provision for the BSF personnel and officers.

The BSF’s jurisdiction was enhanced from 15 km to 50 km in Punjab, West Bengal and Assam, reduced from 80 km to 50 km in Gujarat and kept unchanged at 50 km in Rajasthan.

To make the changes operational, the BSF undertook an exercise along with other agencies to identify and mark the new jurisdiction and its alignment on ground as per the notification, the officials said, adding that this was part of the step-by-step implementation of the government order.

The requirement for having some halting points, posts and other logistical requirements for troops undertaking operations against cross-border crimes have been identified and will be placed before the Union Home Ministry in due time for approval, they said.

Once the proposal is approved by the MHA, the new communication, logistics and if required, posts for jawans would be created gradually, the officials said.

Logistical needs identified

• BSF’s jurisdiction enhanced from 15 km to 50 km in Punjab, West Bengal and Assam, reduced from 80 km to 50 km in Gujarat
• Halting points, posts and other logistical needs to undertake operations identified
• Once approved by MHA, communication, logistics and if required, posts would be created