Security beefed up in Kolkata, along border

PM called his Bangladesh counterpart Sheikh Hasina and expressed his condolences at the loss of life following the terror attack in Dhaka.

Activists participate in a candle light vigil protesting the Bangladesh restaurant attack, in Kolkata. Photo: AP

Security at major installations in Kolkata was stepped up and patrols have been intensified along the West Bengal-Bangladesh border following the deadly terror attack in Dhaka.

Special security arrangements have been made at the office and residence of the Bangladesh Deputy High Commissioner in the city. Security has been also beefed up at the airport and railway stations.

Senior officers of the Border Security Force told

The Hindu, “The vigil across the frontier has been intensified. Even senior officers have been deployed along the border.” The State shares a 2,200 km porous and riverine border with Bangladesh, most of which is not fenced. Searches are being conducted in the border areas in coordination with local people.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi called his Bangladesh counterpart Sheikh Hasina and expressed his condolences at the loss of life following the terror attack in Dhaka. Mr Modi offered all help after the attack.

‘Pained beyond words’

In a twitter message Mr Modi said, “The attack in Dhaka has pained us beyond words. I spoke to PM Sheikh Hasina and strongly condemned the despicable attack.” He also tweeted, “India stands firmly with our sisters & brothers of Bangladesh in this hour of grief.”

Ms. Hasina’s Deputy Press Secretary Ashraful Alam Khokan told reporters she had received Mr Modi’s call on Saturday afternoon