New Delhi, July 21: As New Delhi and Dhaka continue to differ on illegal migration into India, the border forces of the two countries will soon start joint patrolling of the 4,900 km border with the aim of eliminating scope for complaints. "Modalities for the move have been worked out and the final draft agreement has been sent to Bangladesh for approval," BSF Director General Ajai Raj Sharma told reporters He said a response was expected within ten days after which patrolling could start. Main focus of the move would be to increase surveillance of the sensitive areas along the border as the BSF and Bangladesh Rifles (BDR) carry out patrolling on their respective sides in particular areas at pre-determined time, Sharma said.
Patrolling will not be carried out on daily basis but on fixed days as per agreement between the two sides, the BSF chief said adding dates would be kept secret by both sides.

He said the strength of the forces to be used for patrolling each time would be decided mutually.

"After each patrolling, sector commanders of the two forces would meet for debriefing to exchange each other's experiences and point out any areas where improvement is needed," he said after flagging-off a BSF expedition to Mt Mana standing at 23,859 ft in Garhwal Himalayas.

The issue of illegal immigration of Bangladeshis is a major concern in India although Dhaka disputes its existence.

Bureau Report.