Assam: Former-Eastern Command Chief warns of rising extremism in Bangladesh, urges vigilance in northeast

Amid growing regional security and geopolitical concerns, former Chief of the Eastern Command, Lt General R.P. Kalita (Retd.), has cautioned about the increasing activities of fundamentalist forces in Bangladesh and the need for India to maintain heightened vigilance, particularly concerning the Northeast region and the China border.

Speaking on the evolving security scenario, Lt Gen Kalita said there has been a “growing presence of fundamentalist elements in Bangladesh,” particularly those gaining prominence after the political transition in the Sheikh Hasina government. He emphasized that these groups pose a serious threat to India’s strategic and internal security interests, especially in the northeastern states bordering Bangladesh.

Highlighting India’s preparedness on the northern frontier, Lt Gen Kalita noted that both India and China have been rapidly developing military and logistical infrastructure along the border. “We have witnessed notable developments on both sides—from improved logistics facilities to the establishment of helipads and airfields—in anticipation of any future contingency,” he stated.

The retired Army commander further underscored India’s significant progress in fortifying its border regions. “Infrastructure and connectivity have advanced considerably in remote areas. Data and mobile networks have also been strengthened along the border belts of Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, and Uttarakhand,” he added.

Lt Gen Kalita concluded by reaffirming that while India’s border preparedness has vastly improved, continuous monitoring and readiness remain crucial to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty and maintain stability across the northeastern frontier.