Bengaluru, Jan 13 (NationPress) Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara has highlighted that Bangladeshi nationals are choosing to settle in Bengaluru due to its reputation as a peaceful city. He has directed the Karnataka Police Department to collect relevant information regarding this matter.

However, he cautioned against the rise of vigilantism from BJP leaders and other groups.

Addressing reporters in Bengaluru on Tuesday, Home Minister Parameshwara responded to inquiries by stating he had instructed Director General and Inspector General of Police M.A. Saleem and Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemanth Kumar Singh to scrutinize the details about Bangladeshi nationals residing in Bengaluru and throughout the state.

“The authorities will investigate where these individuals are living and whether they have valid documentation. The investigation aims to uncover how and from where they acquired these documents. They are acting as if they are not from Bangladesh at all. We will verify this information and take appropriate action. We have previously deported illegal Bangladeshi nationals,” he stated.

Parameshwara mentioned allegations that Bangladeshi nationals are crossing into Indian territory by paying bribes at border checkpoints. “The Central government is responsible for border security. The Border Security Force and other agencies must work to prevent illegal immigration. We are uncertain whether they are entering India through bribery or stealth,” he added.

Discussing a Bill passed by the state government, Parameshwara confirmed its approval by the Assembly and submission to the Governor. “They may seek clarifications, and we are prepared to provide them,” he affirmed.

He reiterated that Bengaluru's peaceful environment attracts such populations. “Reports indicate that Bangladeshi nationals are employed in coffee estates in Sakaleshapura and nearby areas. We investigated, identified them, and deported them back to Bangladesh. They primarily come for low-skilled jobs. There are also reports of their settlement in the Anekal region on the outskirts of Bengaluru. Regardless of their location, we will identify and deport them,” he asserted.

Parameshwara warned against personal vigilantism, stating no individual has the right to verify others' documents. “People cannot take the law into their own hands. They should inform the police to take appropriate action. If anyone misbehaves or attacks residents, we will respond decisively. No one, including BJP leaders, has the right to engage in violence. If they inform us, we will take action,” he declared.

He further noted that official statistics on the presence of illegal Bangladeshi nationals and their deportation will be disclosed through the DG and IGP as well as the Bengaluru Police Commissioner.

Parameshwara also indicated that all clarifications have been provided to the Governor. “Unwarranted statements are being made that could incite communal tension and lead to serious repercussions. The Bill was introduced after thorough discussions. I addressed concerns during the winter session of the Assembly, but the Opposition created a disturbance,” he stated.

In response to BJP claims regarding the renaming of Mahatma Gandhi Stadium in Tumakuru after him, Parameshwara refuted the allegations, saying, “Only those who are irrational could make such claims. We are initiating a significant protest against the repealing of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act. How could we undertake such an action? My supporters wished to name one of the facilities at the stadium after me, and the Opposition couldn't tolerate even that,” he concluded.