Arunachal Pradesh, located in the northeastern tip of India, shares international borders with China and Myanmar. This strategic position often makes the state a focal point for cross-border crimes such as smuggling, illegal immigration, and infiltration. Moreover, border disputes with neighboring countries, particularly China, complicate the region’s security landscape. To safeguard the region, the state police and other security agencies have been working in close coordination to address these challenges. This article explores the ongoing efforts in combating cross-border crimes, the evolving border dispute issues, and the security measures taken to protect Arunachal Pradesh’s international borders.
**1. Cross-Border Crimes: Smuggling, Illegal Immigration, and Infiltration
Arunachal Pradesh’s porous borders with China and Myanmar have made it a hotspot for illicit cross-border activities. Smuggling of goods such as drugs, wildlife, arms, and contraband items is rampant along the international borders. The illegal movement of goods poses a threat to both national security and the economy.
Illegal immigration has also been a growing concern, with many individuals attempting to cross the border without proper documentation, evading security checks. The infiltration of insurgents or other hostile elements across the border poses a serious risk to peace and stability in the region.
The state police, in collaboration with border forces like the SSB (Sashastra Seema Bal), regularly conduct anti-smuggling operations to intercept these illegal activities. However, due to the difficult terrain and remoteness of the borders, these operations remain a constant challenge.
**2. Border Disputes with Neighboring Countries
The territorial dispute between India and China over Arunachal Pradesh is a long-standing issue. China claims a significant portion of the state as part of its southern Tibet region, often resulting in border skirmishes and military standoffs. This dispute has exacerbated security concerns, leading to an increased military and police presence along the border.
Similarly, Arunachal Pradesh shares a border with Myanmar to the east, where insurgent groups operating within Myanmar frequently cross the border into India. These groups, including militants and illegal traders, make use of Arunachal’s unguarded stretches to carry out attacks, cross-border trafficking, and other activities that threaten regional stability.
The Arunachal Pradesh government has taken steps to enhance security in these areas, deploying additional forces and providing technological support to track any illegal crossings or hostile activities. However, resolving these border disputes and maintaining peace remains an ongoing challenge.
