Delhi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah reviewed security arrangements in the Siliguri Corridor, directing security and government agencies to strengthen their presence in the strategically important area, complete pending infrastructure projects and take steps to curb illegal immigration and encroachments.
The meeting was attended by senior officials from central and state authorities, including the Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Army, Border Security Force, Sashastra Seema Bal and Railway Protection Force. The West Bengal Chief Minister, Chief Secretary and Director General of Police also took part.
The Multi Agency Centre’s Standing Focus Group on Siliguri Corridor presented an assessment of the progress made so far and recommendations for further strengthening security in the corridor.
Infrastructure and border security reviewed
Shah reviewed the status of infrastructure projects considered important for the security of the Siliguri Corridor and directed the agencies concerned to complete pending works within stipulated timelines.
The meeting also discussed PIO activities, demographic changes, illegal immigration and border-related issues. Shah said the Centre, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, was committed to making the security of the corridor impregnable.
He called for the full implementation of what the government described as a “quadrangular approach” to border security and asked all agencies involved to work accordingly.
Shah also directed central and other agencies to expand their presence in the Siliguri Corridor by establishing more institutions in the area.
Focus on vital installations and encroachments
Security arrangements at vital installations along the corridor were also reviewed. Shah asked the agencies to take all necessary measures to protect these facilities and directed that the Siliguri Corridor be kept free of encroachments.
He also stressed the need for steps to prevent illegal immigration in the corridor.
During the meeting, Shah suggested that the West Bengal Chief Minister explore the possibility of opening more Sainik Schools in North Bengal and work towards increasing the number of senior National Cadet Corps cadets in the region.
He also urged the state government to strengthen Civil Defence and Home Guards in the Siliguri Corridor.