- India,
- 26-May-2026 12:08 PM IST
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has issued a series of stringent directives aimed at identifying and taking decisive action against illegal Bangladeshi infiltrators residing within the state. Immediately after assuming the office of Chief Minister following the formation of the BJP government in West Bengal, Adhikari prioritized the issue of illegal immigration, ordering the administration to launch a comprehensive campaign, while this firm stance has triggered a wave of panic among illegal residents, leading to significant gatherings of infiltrators in areas close to the India-Bangladesh border as they attempt to return to their home country.
Tension and Crowds at Bithari Hakimpur Check Post
The impact of the Chief Minister's orders is most visible at the Bithari Hakimpur check post located in Swarupnagar, within the North 24 Parganas district. Reports indicate that a large number of illegal infiltrators have started congregating at this border point, seeking a way back into Bangladesh. On Monday afternoon, numerous individuals were seen waiting near the check post, hoping for clearance to cross the border. 5 years ago, primarily seeking employment. They admitted to having crossed the border illegally with the assistance of various brokers who facilitated their entry into different parts of the state, while now, fearing the strict legal consequences promised by the new administration, they're desperate to leave. They're currently awaiting a green signal from the Border Security Force (BSF) to be officially sent back across the border.
Historical Context and the SIR Precedent
This current situation mirrors events from a few months ago when the announcement of the State Infiltration Register (SIR) in West Bengal led to a similar exodus. During that period, thousands of illegal immigrants who were living in various parts of the state fled back to Bangladesh through the same Bithari Hakimpur check post in North 24 Parganas. The recent change in government and the subsequent immediate orders from Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari have once again brought these scenes to the forefront, as the administrative machinery gears up for a state-wide identification and deportation process.
Establishment of Holding Centers in Malda
In alignment with the state government's new policy, specialized holding centers are being established across various districts to house apprehended individuals. One such center has been operationalized in the Bagbari area of English Bazar in Malda district. This facility is designed to provide a secure environment for those identified as illegal immigrants until their legal status is processed or they're deported. On Monday, 9 individuals identified as Bangladeshi nationals were brought to this holding center. This group consisted of 3 women and 6 minors who were apprehended from the Pandua area under the jurisdiction of the Gazole police station. The government has emphasized that these centers are necessary to manage the influx of detainees following the crackdown.
Security and Logistical Arrangements
The holding center in Malda has been equipped with extensive security measures to ensure order and safety. A significant number of CCTV cameras have been installed throughout the premises to monitor all activities. To manage the daily operations and security of the center, the administration has deployed a dedicated team working in different shifts. This team includes 12 police personnel, 3 civil defense personnel, 3 civic police volunteers, and 1 professional cook to manage the dietary needs of the detainees. This structured approach follows a recent notification issued by the West Bengal government, which directed all District Magistrates (DMs) to establish separate holding centers specifically for arrested illegal Bangladeshi nationals and Rohingyas. The directive ensures that these individuals are kept in designated facilities rather than standard correctional homes, allowing for better administrative control over the deportation process.
