Bangladeshi Migrants Describe Illegal Crossings Amid West Bengal Crackdown
Amid a crackdown on illegal immigration in West Bengal, Bangladeshi migrants are detailing their crossings into India. Reports indicate that hundreds are fleeing to border points, with middlemen facilitating their entry. Some migrants claimed they could cross within 10 minutes if there was a gap in patrolling. The West Bengal government has intensified monitoring and declared that illegal migrants should be handed over to the Border Security Force. Union Home Minister Amit Shah noted that many are returning to Bangladesh voluntarily to avoid detention. The crackdown follows allegations of welfare benefits being misused by illegal migrants, with Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari stating that 30 lakh ineligible beneficiaries have been identified. The India-Bangladesh border spans 4,096 km, with significant stretches still vulnerable to illegal crossings.
Published 2 days ago • 29 May 2026, 06:44 AM IST