The Assam Police, in close coordination with the Border Security Force (BSF), have recently intensified efforts to curb illegal infiltration along the Indo-Bangladesh border, intercepting over 130 illegal migrants in the last two months. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has emphasized the state’s “zero-tolerance policy towards infiltration,” particularly regarding Rohingya nationals. Plans for 12 new police stations near the Indo-Bangladesh border are also under way to enhance coordination with central agencies.
Of the 138 people who have been intercepted by the joint operations of the Assam Police and BSF, many are Rohingya Muslims. The Assam CM has highlighted the issue stating that contrary to assumptions that Hindus will migrate to India post-Bangladesh crisis, instances of Muslims have migrated to India. “We’re observing daily detections of individuals or groups trying to cross into Assam. Despite the BSF’s extensive efforts to secure the boundary, the porous nature of the border still allows some entries,” said Sarma.
He noted that recent data contradicts the assumption that instability in Bangladesh would drive Hindu Bengalis into India, with most intercepted individuals identified as Muslim Rohingyas.
The Chief Minister stressed the importance of a unified approach among border states, including Tripura, Meghalaya, and West Bengal, to effectively manage this challenge. “Assam and Tripura have been intercepting infiltrators diligently, but all states must collaborate with the BSF for comprehensive border security. If West Bengal intensifies efforts, this will help create a cohesive security network,” Sarma said.
In response to inquiries about identity misrepresentation, Sarma said, “Our approach is clear. Regardless of religion, any illegal entrant from Bangladesh will be detected and sent back. Border vigilance is our top priority.”
The team of The Daily Guardian visited Ground Zero a the Dhubri border where BSF has been patrolling day and night amid the recent instances of infiltration. As per highly placed sources, the infiltration, contraband and smuggling of narcotics are also under the radar of the BSF. The BSF along with the Assam police have made major busts across the Indo-Bangladesh borders.
In a fresh case of attempted infiltration from the Tripura side, Assam Police apprehended three Bangladeshi nationals. Identified as MD Abu Shaid, Asadul Islam, and MD Sarwar, all from Rajshahi district, one of the individuals was found to possess an Aadhaar card and was a repeat offender. The group, aiming to travel to Chennai for labor work, was repatriated after their interception.
Chief Minister Sarma praised the Assam Police and BSF personnel for their unwavering vigilance and quick response, adding that “our forces are vigilant 24/7 to prevent infiltration attempts and secure Assam’s borders.”
