Bangladesh-Origin Migrants Gather at Border After India’s “Detect, Delete, Deport” Policy

27/05/2026

DHAKA, May 27: West Bengal has begun setting up holding centres for undocumented migrants as the newly formed BJP government in West Bengal moves to implement its “detect, delete and deport” poll promise, prompting a fresh wave of Bangladeshis gathering at border points to return home.

Hundreds of suspected undocumented migrants, including Bangladeshi national Salim Gaji, assembled at the Border Security Force’s Hakimpur check post in North 24 Parganas district on Tuesday, hoping to cross back into Bangladesh. Gaji had reportedly entered India two years ago through illegal channels and had been living and working in the state without documentation.

The development follows directives issued by the state government to district magistrates to establish holding centres for undocumented immigrants ahead of deportation. Officials say this marks the second such surge in departures, after a similar movement in November 2025 during the SIR exercise, when thousands gathered at border posts.

In recent days, authorities have again reported a rise in the number of Bangladeshis seeking to leave. Nusrat Bibi, 48, from Jessore, said she and her husband—who worked as a mason in India—decided to return voluntarily. “The government would have sent us back if we were caught,” she said.

Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari reiterated the administration’s stance, urging identified Bangladeshi nationals to leave voluntarily. “They should leave. They are Bangladeshis. Their government should accept them,” he said, adding that those detained would not be jailed but would face necessary legal action if they failed to comply.

The BJP had campaigned on a pledge to remove illegal migrants, including Bangladeshis and Rohingyas, from the state. Border check posts are now witnessing increased movement as long-term undocumented workers prepare to return amid tightening enforcement.