West Bengal Hand Over ‘The Chicken’s Neck’ to Central Government | ISH News

The “Chicken’s Neck”, or the Siliguri Corridor, is a narrow stretch of land in northern West Bengal that connects mainland India to the eight northeastern states. At its narrowest point, it is only about 20–22 km wide, making it one of India’s most strategically important regions. Surrounded by Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan and close to China, the corridor is critical for India’s security and connectivity. Any disruption in this area could affect access to the Northeast. On 16 May 2026, the Bengal government led by Suvendu Adhikari approved giving greater control of roads, land and border infrastructure in the region to the Centre and security agencies. This came after the Centre warned that delays and poor maintenance could impact connectivity to Sikkim and the Northeast. Around 75 acres near Siliguri and Phansidewa were approved for border fencing and security work along the India-Bangladesh border. Additional land was cleared for BSF camps, surveillance systems and border outposts. The Centre also plans to expand railway lines from two tracks to six and improve road connectivity linking Sikkim, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Bihar and Bengal. Officials say stronger central control will help speed up projects and build infrastructure better equipped for floods, heavy rain and landslides. The region is already heavily monitored due to concerns over illegal crossings, smuggling, fake currency and militant movement. Following tensions with China in Doklam and Ladakh, India has also increased military deployment in the area. The issue became politically sensitive after rumours claimed the Centre wanted to create a separate Union Territory around the corridor using parts of Bengal and Bihar. However, the Press Information Bureau dismissed these claims as fake. Mamata Banerjee criticised the rumours, while BJP leaders denied any plan to divide Bengal. Supporters say stronger control is necessary for national security and trade, while critics argue that terms like “handing over Chicken’s Neck” create unnecessary fear and raise concerns about growing militarisation and land acquisition in border areas. #ChickenNeck #SiliguriCorridor #India #NortheastIndia #BorderSecurity #WestBengal #NationalSecurity #BSF #IndianArmy ISH News broadcasts the Daily News and Entertainment online in Deaf-friendly accessible formats which are in Indian Sign Language (ISL), visual images with titles, voice-over and closed-captions. This ensures that we provide equal access to every individual, whilst promoting awareness. Follow us for all the latest News & Entertainment and to keep up-to date on all the happenings at ISH News: WhatsApp Channel: https://ish.news/ish-whatsapp Facebook:   / ishnews   Twitter:   / ishnews_tv   Instagram:   / ishnews   Official Site: http://www.ishnews.tv/ Thanks for watching!! Favourites, Likes, Feedbacks & Shares are always appreciated.