Inspector General of BSF, Sonali Mishra tried to ease fears of the Punjab government over the security force's increased jurisdiction in the state. Holding a press conference, IG Mishra stated that " BSF would only complement and assist Punjab Police and other agencies, such as customs and the DRI, in their operations."
The statement appeasing the concerns of politicians comes two days after a special Punjab Assembly session was held to pass a resolution against the notification to extend the BSF’s
jurisdiction from 15 km to 50 km in Punjab.
On Thursday (November 11), the Punjab assembly unanimously passed a resolution against the Centre’s orders that extended the jurisdiction of the Border Security Force in Punjab,
calling it an “insult” to the State police and sought its immediate withdrawal.
“The decision of extending the jurisdiction of BSF from 15 KM to 50 KM by the Union Government is an expression of distrust towards the State Police and the People of Punjab. This
is their insult too,” said Home Minister and state deputy CM Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa.
Showing confidence in Punjab Police, the minister had said that “The law and order situation in state is totally under control. And there is no need to extend the jurisdiction
of BSF. This is a gross violation of the spirit of federalism enshrined in the Constitution of India”.
Also Read: Punjab Assembly passes resolution against Centre’s BSF orders, Capt Amarinder condemns move
Nearly a month ago (on October 14), Union Home Ministry extended the jurisdiction of the Border Security Force (BSF) across a 50-km stretch of India's border in the state, empowering
its officers with powers on par with state police, including the authority to arrest, conduct raids and seize.
Now, at least half of Punjab, almost 25000sq km (out of a total 50,000sq km) has been placed under BSF jurisdiction. Punjab Police stands castigated and the decision has not gone well
political parties like Congress and SAD, who are gearing for upcoming assembly elections in 2022.
Around five to six districts including Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Amritsar, Ferozpur, Fazilka and Abohar come under a 50km area which is now under Center-controlled BSF.