India wants to connect Assam, Arunachal Pradesh through Bhutan

Bhutan and India have discussed ways to improve security along the international border and the possibility of opening a road, linking Arunachal Pradesh’s Tawang with Assam via Bhutan.

Better security coordination along the Indo-Bhutan border, more trade between Bhutan and Indian states like Assam, Arunachal Pradesh and West Bengal, cultural exchange and a host of other issues were discussed by Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju with the top Bhutanese leaders including Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, during his two-day visit Thimphu this week.

Prime Minister Tobgay is learnt to have expressed concerned about security because of which the country is not yet ready for proposal like joint security along the border.

Bhutan has in the past cooperated with India and helped to flush out militant groups like United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) and National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB) hiding in the hills of Bhutan.

Rijiju said he had “fruitful meetings” with Bhutan’s Foreign Minister, Home Minister, Army Chief of Bhutan and discussed various issues with them.

During his meeting with Bhutanese Army Chief Batoo Tshering, the Minister discussed providing security at the Indo-Bhutan border and to the citizens.