Hundreds of suspected illegal Bangladeshi migrants have gathered near the Hakimpur border checkpost in West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas district as the state government intensifies its newly launched “detect, delete and deport” campaign against undocumented foreign nationals. The development has triggered heightened activity along the India-Bangladesh border and renewed debate over immigration and border security.
According to reports, men, women and children carrying bags, blankets and personal belongings began assembling at the Hakimpur checkpoint after the state government announced stricter action against illegal immigrants and started setting up holding centres across districts. Many of those gathered were reportedly seeking to return to Bangladesh before detention and verification procedures could begin.
The crackdown follows the West Bengal government’s adoption of a “detect, delete and deport” policy aimed at identifying undocumented foreign nationals, removing their names from official records and initiating deportation proceedings. Officials have also established multiple holding centres where suspected illegal immigrants can be kept temporarily while authorities verify their nationality and legal status.
State authorities said the action is being carried out under existing immigration laws and Union government guidelines regarding foreign nationals residing illegally in India. Verification procedures reportedly include document checks, biometric data collection and coordination with central agencies and border authorities before any deportation process is completed.
The situation at Hakimpur has drawn significant political attention. West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has repeatedly stated that his government will pursue a strict policy against illegal immigration and has linked the issue to national security and resource management. He has maintained that individuals not covered under the Citizenship (Amendment) Act would be treated as illegal entrants and handed over to border authorities after due process.
Border Security Force (BSF) personnel and local police have increased surveillance around the checkpoint as crowds continue to gather. Officials are recording details of individuals present at the border and coordinating with Bangladeshi authorities regarding verification and repatriation procedures. Reports indicate that only a limited number of people have so far been accepted after nationality verification.
Meanwhile, Bangladesh has also stepped up vigilance along its side of the border. Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) has increased patrols and monitoring amid concerns over possible illegal crossings and pushback attempts. Dhaka has stressed that repatriation must follow established diplomatic and legal procedures between the two countries.
The developments at Hakimpur are being seen as one of the clearest signs yet of the impact of the state’s immigration enforcement drive. With verification and deportation processes continuing, authorities expect the situation along several border points in West Bengal to remain under close watch in the coming weeks.
