Survey in Rajasthan to scrutinise unauthorised constructions, funding in border areas

A special investigation has been launched along the India-Pakistan border in Rajasthan to detect unauthorized constructions and examine the source of financing behind structures located in sensitive border areas, officials said on Saturday.

The exercise covers all constructions within 15 kilometers of the international border and follows directions issued by Union Home Minister Amit Shah at the high-level security review meeting held in Bikaner last month.

The survey, which started about a week ago, was jointly conducted by the Border Security Force (BSF), Intelligence Bureau (IB), district administration, military intelligence and other agencies, officials said.

The exercise is planned to be completed by October.

Jaisalmer Collector Anupama Jorwal said that all constructions and encroachments located between zero and 15 kilometers from the international border will be mapped and verified.

“The investigation will determine whether the structures were built after obtaining the necessary permits and whether any construction violates the prescribed norms. Detailed records are being prepared.” he said. According to the collector, special attention is given to properties that require significant investment or are considered security sensitive.

“Such cases will be subject to further investigation to determine ownership, financial sources and purpose of construction,” he said.

Ms. Jorwal said security agencies would help examine the financing model of projects located near the border.

“If any structure involving significant expenditure is identified, a separate investigation will be conducted. Agencies will verify who is funding it and whether there are any security concerns associated with it,” he said.

Intelligence agencies, including IB, BSF and military intelligence units, will be involved in assessing suspicious cases, officials said.

The move is part of the Centre’s broader efforts to strengthen security along the international border and prevent activities that could facilitate smuggling, infiltration or other illicit operations, officials said.

Sharing a long stretch of the India-Pakistan border, Jaisalmer is considered one of the most sensitive border areas in the country due to its vast desert terrain and strategic location.

The district administration appealed to residents of border villages to report any suspicious activity, unauthorized construction or encroachment to the authorities.