Guwahati, September 2 – Security forces in Assam have successfully turned back at least 24 people from Bangladesh who tried to enter India illegally, government officials said. Assam’s Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma shared this update on social media and emphasized the ongoing efforts to secure the border.
In his post on X (formerly Twitter), Sarma explained, “Sometimes, people forget where their real home is and cross the border into India. But as a caring nation, we push them back. Today, 24 Bangladeshis were returned to their country.” This shows India’s firm stance on border security, especially amid recent tensions.
Following unrest in Bangladesh, authorities have heightened surveillance along the border to prevent illegal crossings. Sarma also mentioned that some of these infiltrators had managed to get Aadhaar cards, India’s biometric ID system. However, he clarified that this doesn’t mean they can register to vote in Assam’s elections. “Even if some get Aadhaar, they cannot register to vote because security forces catch them quickly and push them back,” he explained.
Most of these illegal crossings happened early in the morning. “Around 5 a.m., security personnel found these infiltrators, and by 9 a.m., they were expelled back to Bangladesh,” Sarma added. The quick action ensures that they cannot participate in voting or stay undetected for long.
The Assam government remains vigilant. “We are taking more measures to catch any illegal immigrants from Bangladesh because some might still slip through,” Sarma said. He underlined that border security is a key priority to protect India’s sovereignty.
Sarma also noted that poverty in Bangladesh has pushed some villagers to look for better opportunities in India. With recent political unrest after the departure of Sheikh Hasina’s government, more people from neighboring Bangladesh are trying to cross the border for work and better living conditions.
Interestingly, Sarma pointed out that most of these individuals trying to enter India illegally belong to the Muslim community. He explained that economic hardships, not religious factors, primarily drive these border crossings.
India remains committed to securing its border and preventing illegal immigration while providing safety and stability to its citizens.
