Bashirhat, June 3: Following warnings from West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, a significant number of illegal Bangladeshi migrants are returning to their home country. On Wednesday, long queues of individuals were observed at the Hakimpur border in the North 24 Parganas district, with approximately 300 people, including men, women, and children, preparing to cross back into Bangladesh.
Since early Wednesday morning, numerous Bangladeshi citizens gathered near the Hakimpur border, intending to return with their belongings. Videos captured many individuals carrying cloth bags over their shoulders and managing their possessions, while several women were seen holding children in their arms. The crowd at the border notably included a large number of children.
Many Bangladeshis shared that they had come to Bengal for work but lacked valid documents to stay. The government has stated that they will not retain illegal migrants, prompting their decision to return.
Local police and administration officials arrived at the scene to begin identity verification. This process includes document checks and biometric assessments to confirm the individuals’ citizenship and identity.
Reports indicate that in recent days, groups of such individuals have consistently been arriving at the Hakimpur border. The number of people gathered on Wednesday was notably higher than in previous days.
Authorities have confirmed that all individuals are undergoing legal scrutiny, and further actions will be taken once the verification process is complete. Security agencies are closely monitoring the situation.
The West Bengal government is actively working on a policy to “identify, remove, and repatriate” illegal migrants. Recently, the government decided to establish holding centers at the district level. The Chief Minister had previously warned illegal Bangladeshi nationals to either leave voluntarily or face deportation.
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