Suvendu Adhikari’s Strategic Move on Siliguri Corridor Sparks Fresh Bangladesh Debate

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has taken a major decision regarding the strategically important Siliguri Corridor, also known as the “Chicken Neck” corridor. The Bengal government has transferred nearly 120 acres of land and seven stretches of National Highway to the Central Government, paving the way for faster infrastructure and security development in the region. The Siliguri Corridor is a narrow 20–22 km wide strip that connects India’s northeastern states to the rest of the country. Surrounded by Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and close to China, the corridor holds immense strategic and military importance. It serves as the only land route for transportation, trade, and defense movement between mainland India and the Northeast. According to an official statement, the land transfer had been pending for almost a year despite repeated requests from the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. With the latest approval, agencies such as the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and NHIDCL can now begin expansion, repair, and modernization work on crucial highway stretches passing through the corridor. Out of the seven highway corridors handed over, five pass directly through the Siliguri Corridor. These include key routes connecting Bihar, West Bengal, Sikkim, Darjeeling, and border areas adjoining Bangladesh and Bhutan. Important stretches include NH-312, NH-31, NH-10, and routes linking Siliguri, Kalimpong, Changrabandha, Jaigaon, and Farakka. Officials believe the move will strengthen national security, improve border fencing, and boost military logistics in the sensitive region. Better roads are also expected to improve trade, tourism, and connectivity with the northeastern states. Reports also suggest that India is considering tunnel projects and additional strategic infrastructure to further secure the Chicken Neck corridor. The corridor has gained renewed attention after political instability in Bangladesh and controversial statements made by radical Islamist groups regarding the region. Analysts say strengthening infrastructure in the area is now a top strategic priority for India. This development comes after Suvendu Adhikari became Chief Minister, marking the BJP’s first government in West Bengal. Since taking office, the administration has focused on administrative reshuffling, law and order reforms, and investigations into alleged irregularities involving previous TMC leaders.