Kolkata
Bengal Government Expands ‘Detect, Delete and Deport’ Framework
The West Bengal Home and Hill Affairs Department has directed district administrations to establish “holding centres” for suspected illegal foreigners and foreign prisoners awaiting deportation, reinforcing the state government’s recently announced “detect, delete and deport” policy.
The BJP-led government in West Bengal has initiated steps to institutionalise its “detect, delete and deport” policy by directing all district administrations to create “holding centres” for suspected illegal foreigners and foreign prisoners awaiting repatriation.
According to an order issued on May 23 by the West Bengal Home and Hill Affairs Department through its Foreigners’ Branch, district magistrates have been instructed to establish infrastructure required to house “apprehended foreigners” and “released foreign prisoners” until deportation formalities are completed.
Officials described the directive as a procedural measure aligned with existing central government guidelines concerning the handling and repatriation of foreign nationals staying illegally in India. However, the move comes shortly after Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari publicly announced a tougher anti-infiltration framework and declared the adoption of the “detect, delete and deport” policy.
The phrase has long been associated with the Bharatiya Janata Party’s political messaging in West Bengal, particularly on issues related to illegal infiltration, border security and electoral politics.
The development is expected to intensify political debate in the state, especially regarding migration, citizenship verification and border management along areas adjoining Bangladesh. Critics and opposition parties are likely to seek clarity on implementation mechanisms and safeguards for genuine citizens.
The government has not yet released detailed operational guidelines regarding the functioning, capacity or locations of the proposed holding centres.
