Suspected Jaish-e-Mohammed Infiltration Alerts Bihar; Security Heightened Amid Upcoming Elections
Security measures have been intensified across Bihar following intelligence reports indicating that three suspected terrorists from the Pakistan-based group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) might have entered the state via the Indo-Nepal border.
The Bihar Police Headquarters confirmed the alert on Thursday, disseminating sketches of the suspects to assist in their identification. Surveillance efforts have been increased in border districts adjacent to Nepal, such as Sitamarhi, Motihari, and Bettiah, where cross-border movements are common.
The security alert arises at a politically charged time, as Bihar prepares for Assembly elections later this year. Several prominent leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, are slated to participate in rallies and events in the coming weeks.
Rahul Gandhi is presently leading a 1,300-km ‘Voter Adhikar Yatra’ across 23 districts and 50 Assembly constituencies in the state. This campaign route includes several districts near the Nepal border, such as Sitamarhi and Motihari, with the next phase set to commence on Friday from Bettiah.
Additionally, BJP state president Dilip Jaiswal announced earlier this week that Prime Minister Modi is expected to visit Purnia on September 15 to inaugurate a newly constructed airport and announce significant development projects for the Seemanchal region, a key political area near the Nepal border.
Officials report that the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and central intelligence agencies are closely monitoring the situation. Security forces have increased patrols along the Indo-Nepal border, and inter-agency coordination has been enhanced to prevent any potential terrorist activities.
Police sources describe the alert as precautionary but essential, given previous incidents where Pakistan-backed groups have attempted to use the permeable Indo-Nepal border to enter Indian territory.
The current situation highlights enduring security challenges along the 700-km Bihar-Nepal border, identified by intelligence agencies as a potential infiltration point. With both Assembly elections and frequent high-profile political visits approaching, the state's security framework is on high alert.
