New Delhi, Apr 8: A Bangladesh delegation today called on Home Minister Shivraj Patil and assured that their country would not allow use of its soil for carrying subversive activities against India and sought timely exchange of intelligence and information between the two neighbouring countries.

The delegation led by Bangladesh Rifles (BDR) chief Major General Shakil Ahmed met Mr Patil in the presence of Home Secretary Madhukar Gupta and Border Security Force Director General A K Mitra. The meeting was described as a 'courtesy call' by the BDR delegation which has come here for the five-day India-Bangladesh Border Coordination Conference which began this morning. The Conference focused on the presence of Indian insurgent groups in Bangladesh, especially ULFA militants and Harkat-ul-Jehadi Islami (HuJI), and their deportation.

Expressing concern over terrorism, Mr Mitra said BSF and BDR have a tailor made role to supress proliferation of terror in any form whatsoever across the Indo-Bangla border. The BDR chief was equally in agreement with the emerging perception and desired increased understanding of each other's point of view which would help in breaking fresh ground on issues where perception vary.

''We wish to state it emphatically that we will not allow Bangladeshi territory to be used by forces (individuals or groups) inimical to India,'' Major Ahmad assured and said the most important issue for them would be timely exchange of information regarding terrorist and criminal activities near the Indo-Bangla border so that timely action could be initiated.

Use of Bangladesh territory for infiltration into India by anti-India elements and prevention of smuggling of cattle, fake Indian currency notes and narcotics were also discussed at the meet. Issue of illegal migration of Bangladeshi nationals, obstruction of construction of Border Fence by Bangladeshi Rifles and obstruction of developmental works within 150 yards also featured up at the conference.

UNI