'INFILTRATORS' RETURN IN POLL SEASON

With the assembly elections in Delhi nearing, the issue of undocumented Rohingya and Bangladeshi immigrants takes centerstage. Administrative and policing actions intensify amid political slugfest, marking a departure from previous election seasons

- Anup Verma, Prabhat Shukla and Shekhar Singh

Like Delhi’s smog situation makes headlines every year during winter, the issue of illegal Rohingya and Bangladeshi immigrants also gains traction in the election season — about every five years.

And, that time is here once again. in the run-up to the Delhi assembly polls, due in February 2025, the political slugfest is reaching its crescendo as the polling month nears. However, this time, amid accusations and counter-accusations, administrative and policing actions have been initiated against the undocumented immigrants.

Police crackdown

The Delhi Police has ramped up efforts to identify, detain, and repatriate Bangladeshi immigrants residing in the national capital without valid documentation. This action comes amid rising concerns over the presence of undocumented foreign nationals in the city.

According to police, dedicated teams have been deployed to carry out operations targeting illegal immigrants.

“in response to growing concerns about the illegal stay of Bangladeshi migrants residing in the country without any valid indian documents, the Outer District Police has stepped up efforts to identify, detain, and repatriate individuals living in the national capital without valid documentation,” the statement read.

in recent weeks, the Delhi Police conducted a series of operations and joint inspections across various localities. Special units, including District Foreigner Cell officials, were mobilised to carry out door-to-door checks and gather intelligence.

During these operations, 175 persons were identified as being under suspicion of residing illegally. Detailed interrogations were conducted, and their documents were thoroughly scrutinised and verified. Additionally, teams were dispatched to the individuals’ native places to cross-check their identities in coordination with local police in those regions.