West Bengal Steps Up Action Against Suspected Illegal Immigration

The West Bengal government has set up 11 holding centres across the state as part of its “detect, delete and deport” policy aimed at addressing illegal immigration.

According to officials, a total of 335 detainees suspected to be illegal immigrants are currently being housed in these facilities pending verification and further legal procedures.

A senior official said the holding centres have been established in different parts of the state, with some operating under police districts and others functioning at the district administration level.

Among all locations, Basirhat in the border district of North 24 Parganas has recorded the highest number of detainees. Officials stated that many of those being held are suspected to be either Bangladeshi nationals or members of the Rohingya community whose citizenship status is under scrutiny.

The initiative forms part of the state’s broader effort to identify individuals residing illegally, verify their nationality, and initiate deportation proceedings where applicable under existing legal provisions.

Authorities said verification processes involve coordination with law enforcement agencies and relevant government departments to establish identity and nationality before any further action is taken.

The issue of illegal immigration remains a politically sensitive topic in West Bengal, particularly in districts bordering Bangladesh. Political parties have frequently debated border security, citizenship verification, and the impact of migration on local resources and demographics.

Officials have indicated that the holding centres are temporary facilities designed to accommodate detainees while legal and administrative procedures are completed.