Land for border fencing not an issue, Centre must roll back BSF jurisdiction expansion rule: Mamata Banerjee

Mamata Banerjee demands rollback of BSF jurisdiction expansion while offering land for border fencing, highlighting the political tensions in West Bengal.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday (February 5, 2026) said her government had no objection in providing land for border fencing, but insisted that the Centre must first roll back the “arbitrary” decision to expand the BSF’s jurisdiction in the state from 15 km to 50 km.

Limits and borders: On the territorial jurisdiction of the Border Security Force

Speaking in the Assembly during discussion on the Governor’s address, Ms. Banerjee rejected allegations by the Centre and the BJP over the State government obstructing border fencing, asserting that land had already been provided to all central organisations and agencies, including the BSF.

“Land will not be a problem. You will get land. But first, change the arbitrary rule increasing BSF’s jurisdiction from 15 km to 50 km,” she said, reiterating her government’s commitment to national security.

The remarks came amid a fresh war of words between the Centre and the Trinamool Congress-led government over “delay” in fencing, alleged illegal migration and the management of West Bengal’s long and porous borders with Bangladesh.

Ms. Banerjee took direct aim at Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who recently accused the State of not cooperating on fencing, alleging that the Centre was selectively presenting facts.