Desk:A fresh controversy has emerged on the India-Pakistan border in Rajasthan’s Barmer district, where a structure was built within 150 yards of the international boundary. The structure, resembling a bunker, was claimed by Pakistan to be a temporary toilet. However, the Border Security Force (BSF) identified it as an illegal construction and took immediate action on Monday.
According to officials, the incident took place in the Gadra area of Barmer, where BSF personnel noticed the construction within the restricted 150-yard zone. A flag meeting was held with junior officers, during which Pakistani officials denied any violation and insisted that they were only constructing a temporary toilet for their soldiers. BSF rejected this claim and immediately issued a strong protest note.
150-Yard Zone Considered No Man’s Land
The 150-yard area along the border is classified as “No Man’s Land,” where any construction is strictly prohibited. Reports suggest that the structure was built secretly during nighttime, which raises concerns about its intent. BSF personnel spotted the construction on Monday, located just 100 yards from the border.
Similar incidents have been reported on the India-Bangladesh border, but this is the first such case on the India-Pakistan border this year.
BSF Registers Strong Protest
Sources indicate that the BSF has strongly protested against Pakistan’s actions and has demanded the immediate demolition of the structure. Officials warned that if Pakistan does not remove it, India will construct a bunker in response.
BSF in Charge of Border Management
Although the Rajasthan government has jurisdiction over the region, BSF’s Gujarat Frontier manages border security. Officials confirmed that the construction work has been halted for now, and battalion commanders are measuring the site for further investigation. The fact that the structure was built at night indicates Pakistan was aware of its illegality. The BSF headquarters has been informed about the situation.
No Response from Pakistan Rangers
So far, Pakistan Rangers have not responded to India’s objections. However, BSF has made it clear that if Pakistan continues construction, India will also build a bunker in the same area. The BSF, along with the Indian Army, is responsible for securing the 2,296.66 km-long India-Pakistan border and the 435 km-long Line of Control (LoC).