Recent operations by law enforcement agencies across India have led to the arrests of numerous Bangladeshi nationals illegally residing in the country, raising significant concerns about national security and immigration practices. This troubling trend has been exacerbated by the political crisis currently enveloping Bangladesh, prompting increased scrutiny of undocumented immigrants attempting to cross the porous borders.
On December 22, four individuals from Bangladesh were apprehended by police at a lodge in Dhule, Maharashtra. The anti-terrorism squad (ATS) had received intelligence about the illegal immigrants, who were identified as Mahammad Mehtab Bilal Shaikh (48), Shilpi Begam Mahammad Bilal Shaikh (43), Byuti Begam Polas Shaikh (45), and Ripa Shaikh (30). Following their arrest, police confirmed they had illegally entered India with the intent to find work.
Following investigations, it was revealed the couple, Mahammad and Shilpi, had been living apart; Mahammad resided for 20 years in Mumbra, Mumbai, and Shilpi worked as domestic help in Bengaluru. Both women also communicated frequently with relatives back home using messaging apps. The local police have since initiated inquiries to track down the agents who facilitated their move.
On the same day, Uttar Pradesh's ATS arrested Siraj Mukhtar (33) and Halima Mukhtar (28), who were residing illegally in Aligarh using forged Indian documents. Officials seized multiple identification documents, including PAN cards and voter ID cards, during their operation. The couple had reportedly entered India through the Benapole route and settled with assistance from local contacts who aided them in obtaining their fraudulent documentation. ATS IG, Nilabja Chaudhary, highlighted their extensive travel history, which included trips to Dubai and Saudi Arabia using the false identities.
Further north, Agartala's police detained three Bangladeshi nationals—Chhoton Das (19), Bishnu Chandra Das (20), and Mohammad Malek (30)—who were found attempting to board a train with plans to reach Kolkata. Initially caught by the combined efforts of local police, the Railway Protection Force (RPF), and the Border Security Force (BSF), they were interrogated at Agartala GRP Police Station. Police suspect additional individuals may also be involved.
Authorities have also ramped up deportation efforts, successfully identifying 175 suspected illegal Bangladeshi immigrants during recent operation checkpoints across Delhi. The Outer District Police has implemented targeted strategies to address the growing number of undocumented individuals inhabiting the capital.
At the same time, reports from West Bengal reveal the arrest of 190 illegal Bangladeshi immigrants over the past year, with the highest number occurring during the last 45 days. Many of these individuals crossed the Indo-Bangladesh border amid increasing violence against minority communities and religious institutions, taking advantage of the loosely fenced borders. Investigations indicate these individuals participated in networks facilitating the acquisition of fake Indian documentation, making their situation more precarious.
These operations reflect increasing vigilance from Indian authorities, who worry about the implications of undocumented immigration on national security. Notably, the recurrence of arrests has spurred broader conversations about enforcement practices and immigration policy reform across the subcontinent.
The situation remains fluid, as multiple agencies are now focused on identifying the scope of illegal immigration networks operating at the border and inside the country. Not only are the involved law enforcement agencies, such as the ATS and local police departments stepping up their operations, but they also face the challenge presented by systemic issues prompting immigration, such as economic disparity and instability back home.
While the rise of undocumented immigrants poses challenges, it simultaneously brings to light the stories of those who flee dire circumstances, seeking livelihoods and stability. The arrests lead to inquiries about the motivation of these individuals—often escaping poverty, unemployment, or violence. Indeed, many are simply searching for opportunities often denied to them due to political and economic upheaval.
Authorities have emphasized the gravity of these situations, reaffirming their commitment to controlling illegal immigration through strategic operations and community engagement. The message from police officials is clear: they remain determined to safeguard the nation's integrity and key infrastructure from potential threats woven through the fabric of cross-border migration.
With the political climate of Bangladesh potentially driving more individuals across the border, this issue will remain at the forefront of India's immigration policies and law enforcement priorities. The regional and national authorities are continuously adapting their strategies to navigate the complex interplay of security, human rights, and undocumented immigration.
