Is Karnataka Government Monitoring Expats Closely?

Bengaluru, July 15 (NationPress) Karnataka's Home Minister, G. Parameshwara, announced on Tuesday that the state government is diligently tracking expats, emphasizing that anyone discovered residing in the state without proper authorization will face deportation.

In a press conference in Bengaluru, when questioned about illegal Bangladeshi immigrants living in the city and elsewhere in Karnataka, he stated, “We are actively monitoring expats throughout Bengaluru and the state. Currently, over 10,000 individuals are in Karnataka without proper documentation. We are continuously overseeing those who enter from abroad. Both the Central and state governments are collaborating on this matter.”

He further explained, “Should anyone's visa expire, they will be notified and asked to depart. Additionally, those found residing illegally will undoubtedly be detained and deported. We will first inform the relevant high commissions or embassies, and they will take the necessary actions.”

Regarding a Russian woman discovered living in a cave with her children in the Karwar district, Parameshwara indicated that the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) is managing the situation. “It is the responsibility of the FRRO. If their passports are no longer valid, the FRRO will alert the local police, and the required procedures will unfold under their guidance,” he noted.

On the topic of the suspension of government hiring and promotions, Parameshwara pointed out that all recruitment activities have been halted due to the ongoing review of internal reservations. “Once this process concludes, all activities will resume. It is merely a temporary delay,” he clarified.

Addressing the controversy surrounding the naming of the Sigandur bridge, he remarked that the decision rests with the Chief Minister’s Office and the relevant authorities. “The Central government should engage with the state government. This is a federal system, and governance should be collaborative,” he commented.

He stressed, “Such confusion must be avoided. The issue needs resolution through proper channels. The inauguration was planned without informing the Chief Minister, who requested a mere two-day postponement. Delaying the event was not a significant issue.”

Parameshwara remarked, “Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, is a proactive leader who has accomplished valuable work. He has initiated beneficial projects for the state, including the Bengaluru-Mysuru Expressway project. However, if he cannot grasp the situation and agree to delay an inauguration, it raises questions.”

When discussing the visit of Karnataka in-charge, Randeep Singh Surjewala, he stated that he is meeting with Surjewala this time. “He has met only those ministers who requested an appointment,” he added.

“We are unaware of the discussions that took place in those meetings. From what I gather, those who met him talked about development matters and preparations for local body elections. I lack details about any specific agenda behind the meetings. If there had been an evaluation of ministers, we would have been informed, as was done previously,” he concluded.