West Bengal Tightens Border Controls as Illegal Bangladeshi Migrants Flee Amid New Government Policy A wave of panic has swept across the border regions of West Bengal as authorities intensify efforts to deport undocumented Bangladeshi immigrants. The state government, led by Chief Minister Subhas Bhanja, has escalated its crackdown under a new policy dubbed "Detect-Delete-Deport" (3D), which aims to expedite the removal of illegal migrants. The policy, which includes establishing holding centers at the district level, has triggered mass exodus among undocumented residents, with hundreds gathering at border checkpoints like Hakimpur in North 24 Parganas. Bhanja’s administration has announced plans to set up holding centers in all 23 districts of West Bengal, where undocumented migrants will be detained for up to 30 days before being handed over to the Border Security Force (BSF) for deportation. The move follows a directive to streamline the legal process, bypassing lengthy court procedures that previously delayed deportations. Bhanja has issued a stern warning to illegal migrants, urging them to "leave quickly or face the consequences," as authorities prepare to enforce stricter measures. The policy has intensified anxiety among undocumented residents, many of whom have been living in the region for years. At Hakimpur border checkpoint, crowds of Bangladeshi nationals gathered in long lines, some carrying belongings and waiting for the opportunity to cross back to their home country. Reports indicate that over 40 individuals remained at the site on Wednesday, with more expected to arrive. Many admitted to entering India illegally through agents and smugglers, now fearing detention under the new rules.#west_bengal #border_security_force #north_24_parganas #subhas_bhanja #hakimpur
