Himanta’s warning to ‘those who threaten India’s chicken neck corridor’: Bangladesh has 2 more vulnerable ones
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma recently warned about threats to India’s “chicken neck corridor.” This narrow Siliguri Corridor connects India’s northeast to the mainland. Sarma highlighted its critical role in India’s security and pointed out that Bangladesh also has two vulnerable regions.
Why the Chicken Neck Corridor Matters
The Siliguri Corridor is about 20-22 kilometers wide. It is the only land link between India’s northeast and the rest of the country. All movement of people, goods, and military forces passes through here. Because of its narrowness, the corridor is highly vulnerable.
Experts call it a “chicken neck” because of its shape. Any disruption here can isolate the entire northeast. This can affect trade, transport, and defense.
Sarma said, “The chicken neck is a lifeline that ensures unity and security in India’s northeast. Threats to it are threats to India’s sovereignty.”
Bangladesh’s Additional Vulnerabilities
While stressing the corridor’s importance, Sarma warned about two other vulnerable points in Bangladesh. These are near the India-Bangladesh border. Though he didn’t name them, security analysts suggest these points are border areas with weak monitoring and control.
Bangladesh’s geography is complex, with many rivers and floodplains. This makes border control difficult. Such weak points can be exploited by smugglers, insurgents, or hostile groups. This could cause unrest and threaten security in the region.
India and Bangladesh share a 4,096 km border. This long border has both official and unofficial crossing points. While relations between the two countries are generally friendly, border issues sometimes cause tension. Problems include illegal crossings, smuggling, and insurgent movements.
Sarma’s warning signals that these vulnerable areas in Bangladesh need attention. Ignoring them could indirectly threaten India’s security, especially in the northeast.
Geopolitical Context in the Northeast
India’s northeast borders Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, and China. The region is strategically sensitive. It is a gateway for trade and diplomacy, but also prone to conflict.
China’s growing influence in South Asia adds pressure. Projects like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) increase the need for vigilance. The Siliguri Corridor acts as a buffer against Chinese advances from the northeast.
The porous India-Bangladesh border has been used by insurgents to move arms and fighters. Thus, security cooperation between India and Bangladesh is crucial.
Sarma’s statement calls for greater vigilance and cooperation. It reminds officials to watch not only India’s borders but also vulnerabilities in neighboring Bangladesh.
Steps to Strengthen Security
India is working hard to improve security along the chicken neck corridor and the India-Bangladesh border. The government is building roads, bridges, and enhancing surveillance with drones and sensors.
The Border Security Force (BSF) and Assam Rifles have been strengthened to respond quickly to threats. Efforts also focus on improving rail, road, and air connectivity to the northeast. This creates alternate routes if the corridor is blocked.
India and Bangladesh also collaborate on border management. They conduct joint patrols, share intelligence, and fence vulnerable stretches. Both countries signed agreements to address issues like illegal migration and smuggling.
Experts say more work remains. Improving socio-economic conditions in border areas can reduce unrest and security risks.
Balancing Security with Development
The challenge is balancing security with development. India’s northeast is growing fast economically but remains geographically isolated.
Development plans like the Act East Policy depend on secure access through the chicken neck corridor. Bangladesh’s development also requires addressing vulnerabilities with better infrastructure and cooperation.
Conclusion: Vigilance and Cooperation Are Key
Himanta Biswa Sarma’s warning is a clear call for vigilance. The chicken neck corridor is a strategic lifeline. Protecting it is essential for India’s unity and security.
Bangladesh’s vulnerabilities must not be ignored. Both countries benefit from managing these risks together.
Future peace and prosperity depend on strong diplomatic ties, joint security efforts, and infrastructure investment. Only then can this crucial region remain stable.
Sarma’s message is firm: threats to the chicken neck corridor will be met with vigilance. Regional security requires constant attention and cooperation.
