Security beefed ahead of Bhutan General elections

Jalpaiguri, Dec 26 (UNI) Security has been beefed up in various parts of Siliguri and North Bengal, in view of Bhutan's General elections slated for December 30.

The elections, which is to be held for the first time in this neighbouring country, is a matter of concern for India, as much as it is for Bhutan, due to its Maoist problem since the early 90s, sources in the Central and state investigative agencies said toady.

The sources said that 70 Bhopalis, who are deported Nepalis of Bhutani origin, having militant training from Maoists were camping in different areas of Siliguri and North Bengal.

''It is due to this reason why we have decided to seal the border 36 hours before the actual date of election,'' said North Bengal DIG Robinjit Singh, while speaking on security arrangement made in view of the Genenral elections in Bhutan.

Mr Singh said, ''Bhoplalis are camping here and will try to disrupt the election procedure and cause tension in the area. So in order to keep law and order in the area and preserve peace across hte border we have taken security measures in advance.'' Security has been beefed up along the border and all police stations in all bordering districts of North Bengal have been alerted to keep strict vigil in thier respective areas of jurisdiction.

State investigative agency sources have said that the Bhopali militants from three camps in Beldangi and another from Goldhap are planning to enter Bhutan through Golfolia, Badrapur and Kishanganj, three villages on the Indo-Bhutan border in Siliguri's Panitanki area.

UNI