Have 20 Bangladeshi Nationals Been Pushed Back Along the Indo-Bangladesh Border in Assam?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Assam's government is implementing a strict border control policy.
- Security forces have pushed back illegal immigrants swiftly.
- Economic conditions in Bangladesh are driving migration.
- Concerns about changing demographics are a priority.
- Voter registration is not available for illegal entrants.
Guwahati, Sep 18 (NationPress) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated on Thursday that security forces successfully repelled at least 20 Bangladeshi nationals who had illegally crossed the international boundary into Indian territory.
In a post on his X handle, CM Sarma noted: “Another group of 20 habitual offenders has been sent back to their base in Bangladesh. We maintain a ZERO tolerance policy towards illegal immigration and will continue to uphold this stance.”
The state government has adopted a firm approach against infiltration from Bangladesh, and CM Sarma frequently issues warnings about the potential threat posed to the demographic balance in Assam.
He has criticized previous Congress administrations for allegedly providing refuge to Bangladeshi infiltrators, asserting that such individuals have been encroaching upon the lands of local inhabitants.
Earlier, CM Sarma claimed that although some Bangladeshi infiltrators have managed to acquire Aadhaar cards, they are unable to register on the voter list.
He emphasized that there is no possibility of individuals illegally crossing the international border from Bangladesh and then enrolling in the voter list in Assam, as security forces apprehend many who illegally enter Indian territory and subsequently push them back within hours.
“Most infiltrators are arrested around 5 a.m., and by 9 a.m., they are sent back to their home country. Within two or three hours, it is impossible for them to register on the voter list,” he explained.
However, the Chief Minister believes that it is prudent to remain extra vigilant on this issue.
“We have decided to implement multiple measures for identifying illegal immigrants from Bangladesh, as there may be instances where a few infiltrators evade capture by security personnel,” he added.
CM Sarma argued that economic hardship in Bangladesh has led to increased migration into India, particularly following the unrest after the exit of the Sheikh Hasina government.
He also pointed out that, contrary to popular belief, it is predominantly individuals from the Muslim community who are attempting to cross the border illegally in search of employment opportunities.