Kolkata, 8 May (H.S.) – Following a powerful missile strike by the Indian Army on nine terrorist bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) under Operation Sindoor, national security agencies have ramped up surveillance along the strategically vital 'Chicken Neck' area in North Bengal.

Known officially as the Siliguri Corridor, this narrow strip of land in West Bengal connects mainland India to the northeastern states. At its narrowest, the corridor is just about 20 kilometers wide. It shares close proximity with Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh, making it one of India’s most geopolitically sensitive zones.

Security analysts regard the Chicken Neck as a critical vulnerability in India's strategic defense layout. In the event of a large-scale conflict, experts warn that the region could be targeted by adversaries like Pakistan in coordination with China, aiming to sever India’s link to the Northeast.

In the aftermath of Operation Sindoor—a retaliatory strike launched by India in response to the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 personnel—the Indian government has significantly tightened security in the region. According to Home Ministry sources, surveillance has already been intensified to curb the smuggling of narcotics, arms, and counterfeit currency through the porous borders of the Siliguri Corridor. However, fresh intelligence inputs have prompted additional deployment of forces to prevent potential infiltration by terrorists.

Home Minister Amit Shah issued a stern caution, stating, “Never underestimate the enemy.” The ministry has also reportedly cancelled the leaves of all personnel in key paramilitary forces including BSF, CRPF, ITBP, SSB, and CISF, directing them to return to duty immediately.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh