BSF Mulls Using Snakes, Crocodiles In Riverine Gaps Along Bangladesh Border To Curb Infiltration

Last Updated:April 06, 2026, 09:52 IST

Officials clarified that the idea is still at an exploratory stage and has not been implemented.

The Border Security Force (BSF) has directed its field units to examine the feasibility of deploying reptiles such as snakes and crocodiles in vulnerable riverine stretches along the India-Bangladesh border to deter infiltration and criminal activity.

A signal sent from the BSF headquarters on March 26 to all field units along the Bangladesh border, said the “use of reptiles is in line with Home Minister Amit Shah’s directions". According to the Hindu, the signal added, “The feasibility of deploying reptiles (such as snakes or crocodiles) in vulnerable riverine gaps is to be explored and examined from an operational perspective."

Officials clarified that the idea is still at an exploratory stage and has not been implemented.

“Till now the directions on reptiles have not been implemented. The directions have come to explore the possibility of it. There are several challenges… how does one procure the reptiles and what impact it may have on the local population who live along the riverine stretches?" the Hindu quoted an official as saying.

The communication followed a February 9 meeting at the BSF headquarters in Delhi.

The Border Security Force (BSF) is the main force responsible for guarding India’s borders with Bangladesh and Pakistan. However, large stretches of the eastern border with Bangladesh are flood-prone, and the terrain makes it difficult to construct physical fencing. As these areas are also densely populated, the proposed use of reptiles could pose significant risks to residents living along both sides of the border, particularly during floods.

The move comes amid continued concerns over smuggling and infiltration along the eastern border. In January this year, BSF troops from the 32nd Battalion under the South Bengal Frontier intercepted a gold smuggler along the India-Bangladesh border in Nadia district of West Bengal and seized gold biscuits worth around Rs 1 crore. The suspect tried to flee but was chased and detained by the personnel.

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