Heightened Security Measures Along India-Bangladesh Border in Tripura

Security along specific stretches of the India-Bangladesh border in Tripura has been intensified following intelligence reports indicating potential movement of members from two Bangladesh-based armed groups: the Parbatya Chattagram Jana Samhati Samiti (PCJSS) and the United People’s Democratic Front (UPDF). On January 3, 2026, Rinku Lather, the District Magistrate of Gomati district, announced a night curfew in select border areas under the Karbook sub-division, effective from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. until February 28, 2026. This decision was made to prevent infiltration and maintain public order, based on inputs from the Border Security Force (BSF).

Security tightened along Tripura’s India-Bangladesh border amid militant movement inputsThe HinduSecurity forces arrest 11 IMK operatives in Assam and TripuraTripura Police Nab Suspected Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh Offshoot Member

The notification highlighted concerns that militants, alongside Bangladesh nationals and Rohingyas, might attempt to cross the border to engage in criminal activities, smuggling, and actions that could disrupt peace. Restrictions under Section 183 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, were imposed to counter these threats. Notably, residents living within 300 meters of the international border are exempt from these curfew provisions.

Security tightened along Tripura’s India-Bangladesh border amid militant movement inputs

The PCJSS, which was previously linked to the Shanti Bahini, an armed group that sought a sovereign Chittagong Hill Tracts for indigenous communities, signed the Chittagong Hill Tracts Peace Accord with the Bangladesh government on December 2, 1997. However, tribal groups have claimed that key provisions of this accord remain unfulfilled. Recent reports suggest renewed tensions in the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) following political developments in Bangladesh, with allegations of attacks on indigenous communities by security forces and illegal settlers.

Security tightened along Tripura’s India-Bangladesh border amid militant movement inputsThe HinduSecurity forces arrest 11 IMK operatives in Assam and TripuraTripura Police Nab Suspected Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh Offshoot Member

The heightened security measures come in the wake of a June 2024 incident where Tripura Police detained 13 members of the PCJSS who had crossed into India for medical treatment after being injured in clashes with a rival group in the CHT. This incident underscores the ongoing volatility in the region.

The Hindu

In a related crackdown on extremist activities, security forces recently arrested 11 suspected operatives of the Imam Mahamude Kafila (IMK), a Bangladesh-based offshoot of Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB), in Assam and Tripura. The IMK has been linked to the radicalization and recruitment of individuals in Northeast India, including through online platforms and local gatherings. Police investigations revealed that substantial funds have been remitted from India to support extremist training and logistics.

Security forces arrest 11 IMK operatives in Assam and TripuraTripura Police Nab Suspected Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh Offshoot MemberSecurity tightened along Tripura’s India-Bangladesh border amid militant movement inputsThe Hindu

The District Magistrate's notification emphasized the need for these security measures to ensure peace and tranquillity in the region. The police have stated that the cumulative effect of IMK's activities poses a "grave threat" to India's unity and integrity.

Security tightened along Tripura’s India-Bangladesh border amid militant movement inputs

Critics of the security measures argue that while the intent is to maintain public order, such restrictions may disproportionately affect local communities living near the border. There are concerns about the potential for increased tensions between security forces and residents, particularly in light of past incidents involving armed groups.

Security tightened along Tripura’s India-Bangladesh border amid militant movement inputs

While the security measures are based on intelligence inputs, there is a lack of clarity regarding the specific nature of the threats posed by the PCJSS and UPDF. Additionally, the extent of the operational capabilities of these groups remains uncertain, with varying reports on their activities and influence in the region.

Security tightened along Tripura’s India-Bangladesh border amid militant movement inputs

“It further said that restrictions under Section 183 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 have been imposed to ensure peace and tranquillity by preventing the designs of anti-national elements and activities of organisations inimical to the safety and security of the general public.” — Rinku Lather, District Magistrate of Gomati District

The Hindu

“Summing up the threat, Assam Police said that the cumulative effect of IMK’s activities poses a “grave threat” to India’s unity and integrity.” — Assam Police Official

Security forces arrest 11 IMK operatives in Assam and Tripura