Panic Grips Bengal Border, as Suspected Illegal Migrants Gather to Return to Bangladesh

Kolkata: Tension has intensified across West Bengal’s border regions following a major crackdown on illegal infiltration and undocumented Bangladeshi nationals. On Tuesday morning, large groups of suspected migrants were seen gathering near the Hakimpur border checkpoint in Basirhat, located in North 24 Parganas district.

Witnesses reported seeing men, women and children carrying luggage, utensils and personal belongings while waiting for clearance to cross back into Bangladesh. According to local sources, nearly 100 people had also gathered near the same checkpoint on Monday, while several others remained stationed outside the border area waiting for instructions.

Fear After Government’s Strict Policy

The sudden movement near border regions comes after the newly formed BJP-led state administration announced strict action against suspected illegal immigrants. The government has introduced a “Detect, Delete and Deport” policy aimed at identifying undocumented foreign nationals living in the state.

Officials claim that many of the suspected migrants had been residing for years in areas such as New Town, Dumdum and Dankuni. Following the announcement of detention facilities and verification drives, panic reportedly spread among undocumented residents across multiple districts.

Holding Centers Established in Key Districts

Authorities have started operational “holding centers” in Malda and Murshidabad districts, where suspected Bangladeshi nationals are being kept under surveillance. CCTV monitoring and heavy police deployment have been arranged around these facilities.

According to officials, individuals brought to these centers will remain there for up to 30 days while their identity documents and citizenship records are verified. Administrative activity has also intensified in several districts after the state government instructed officials to identify locations for additional holding centers.

Government Tightens Stand on Infiltration

Chief Minister Shubhendu Adhikari recently held a meeting with Border Security Force officials and emphasized that anyone falling outside the scope of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) would be treated as an illegal infiltrator.The government maintains that the crackdown is necessary for national security and demographic balance, while opposition parties have accused the administration of creating fear among minority communities.

Meanwhile, officials say further verification and deportation procedures will continue in coordination with central agencies. Heavy police presence remains in sensitive border areas as authorities monitor the situation closely.