A renewed crackdown on illegal infiltration in West Bengal has reportedly triggered a rush of people attempting to return to Bangladesh through the Hakimpur border check post in North 24 Parganas. The development comes amid the implementation of the BJP government’s “Detect, Delete and Deport” policy under Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari.
According to reports from the ground, hundreds of alleged Bangladeshi infiltrators have gathered near the border, fearing stricter enforcement measures and police action. Many were shifted to government holding centres for identity verification and deportation proceedings under existing laws.
Hakimpur, located several hours from Kolkata, has previously witnessed similar scenes during the Election Commission’s Special Intensive Revision exercise. However, this time authorities appear to be taking a more aggressive approach toward suspected illegal immigrants.
Several individuals interviewed near the border claimed they possessed Indian documents such as Aadhaar cards, ration cards, and voter IDs. Some alleged that these documents were arranged through local Trinamool Congress leaders over the years.
A woman identified as Ruby Biwi, originally from Khulna in Bangladesh, claimed she had lived and worked in Dum Dum after receiving Indian identity documents and welfare benefits. Others made similar allegations, saying they had voted in elections and received assistance from local political workers.
Some individuals also admitted to entering India illegally with the help of middlemen or “dalals” after paying money to cross the border. One man claimed he paid ₹10,000 to enter India four years ago, while another said he crossed the border after paying ₹6,000.
The BJP has long accused the Trinamool Congress of encouraging infiltration for political gains, an allegation denied by the TMC. The claims emerging from Hakimpur are likely to intensify the political battle over illegal immigration, voter identity documentation, and border security in West Bengal.
