By Bharat Global Time News Desk
In a significant move aimed at tightening immigration controls, Indian authorities have launched a large-scale crackdown on illegal Bangladeshi migrants residing in Bihar. The Supreme Court of India has come out in strong support of the government’s efforts, making it clear that India is “not a dharamshala” — a place where anyone can come and settle without legal rights.
The Operation: Widespread Raids, Detentions Across Bihar
Security agencies, in coordination with state authorities, have identified and detained hundreds of suspected illegal immigrants across various districts of Bihar. According to officials, many of these individuals had entered India without valid documents and were living in densely populated areas such as Katihar, Purnia, Kishanganj, and Araria — regions close to the Indo-Nepal border, which are often used as soft entry points.
The operation is part of a broader national strategy to identify illegal foreigners, particularly from Bangladesh, who are believed to be residing in various parts of the country without proper documentation.
Supreme Court’s Firm Message: National Security First
The Supreme Court, while hearing a petition related to the issue, firmly backed the government’s stance. A bench headed by Justice Sanjiv Khanna observed:
“India is not a dharamshala. There must be some discipline in handling illegal immigration. National security, demographic balance, and socio-economic impact must be considered.”
This statement comes at a time when several states have raised concerns over the increasing number of undocumented immigrants and their influence on the local job market, law and order, and voter demographics.
🇮🇳 A Long-standing Issue: Why India is Taking a Tougher Stance
The issue of illegal Bangladeshi migrants has been a long-standing one, especially in eastern India. For years, porous borders and lack of stringent enforcement allowed migrants to settle in Indian cities and rural areas, often blending in with the local population.
While India has always maintained a humanitarian approach toward genuine refugees, the government underlined that illegal entry and continued unauthorized stay pose serious national concerns — including identity fraud, pressure on public services, and security risks.
Detentions and Deportation Process
Officials stated that those detained are being processed under the Foreigners Act, and cases are being reviewed to verify their nationality. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is reportedly working with the Bangladesh government to facilitate the deportation of confirmed illegal migrants.
Local police and intelligence agencies are also probing possible networks involved in facilitating cross-border movement, including fake documentation rackets.
Public Reaction: Mixed but Largely Supportive
While human rights groups have raised concerns about the humanitarian aspects of the crackdown, many locals and state leaders have voiced support. They argue that unchecked illegal migration has disrupted local job markets and created demographic tensions in several sensitive districts of Bihar and Assam.
Conclusion: A Turning Point in India’s Immigration Policy?
This crackdown in Bihar could be a bellwether for similar actions across other states. With judicial backing and political will, India seems to be taking a firmer stand against undocumented migrants, especially in regions bordering Bangladesh.
The Supreme Court’s clear support further signals a shift in tone — one that emphasizes law, order, and national interest over unregulated humanitarianism.
Stay tuned with Bharat Global Time for updates on this developing story.
