 "Representational image. PTI File")
The narrow 22-kilometre strip connecting the seven sisters and the northeastern states to the main Indian territory is the Siliguri corridor. India is transforming the corridor with a new edge in military bases and installations. Three new installations were installed in the region, signalling the military preparedness. This marks a fundamental shift in Delhi’s strategic move and posture.
The timing reflects the seismic political changes in Bangladesh and the political turmoil. The ideologies of the interim government formed by Muhammad Yunus sharply align with China and Pakistan.
They are strategic nodes equipped with rapid deployment forces, intelligence units, and Para Special Forces, designed to ensure the corridor can never be compromised to enhance the military ability of armed forces before any attack occurs.
New bases provide coverage
The new bases introduced provide a political setup overlapping the coverage of the corridor , positioned just above the Bangladesh border. This will provide surveillance deep inside Bangladesh and rapid mobilisation before any military action along the frontier.
Reports indicate Bangladesh plans to acquire $2.2 billion worth of Chinese J-10C fighters and is collaborating with Beijing on drone manufacturing, whilst Pakistan has offered JF-17 Block C Thunder jets.
Indian fighter jets
The Siliguri corridor, just 22 kilometres wide at its northwest points, links about 45 million people in the northeast and the rest of the world. India has reinforced this posture with the Rafale fighters, BrahMos missiles, and advanced air defence systems, moving from reactive deterrence to proactive dominance.
The Siliguri corridor will be a strength for India after the fortification and remain an asset instead of being a vulnerability. It will serve as a corridor prepared to protect the territorial sovereignty.