"Why should Bangladeshis stay here?": Dilip Ghosh backs 'delete, detect, deport' policy in West Bengal
Kolkata, May 27
West Bengal Minister Dilip Ghosh on Wednesday backed THE state government's crackdown on the illegal Bangladeshi migrants, stressing that it would be ideal for them if they returned on their own; otherwise, the government would be compelled to take action.
Ghosh's remarks come amidst West Bengal government's push for its 'delete, detect, deport' policy to remove illegal Bangladeshis from the state.
Speaking to reporters, Ghosh questioned the need for undocumented Bangladeshis to stay in India, adding that such people would be segregated and identified who were benefiting from governmental schemes which are intended for the poor.
"Why should Bangladeshis stay here? They are availing themselves of every facility provided by the Central Government. They are benefiting from welfare schemes intended for the poor. By granting them citizenship, issuing Voter IDs and Aadhaar cards, and registering them as voters, their votes were being solicited here... Such individuals will be identified and segregated; the Home Minister has already declared that they will all be sent back. It would be ideal if they were to return to their own country of their own accord... or the government will be compelled to take necessary action," said Ghosh.
Earlier, the West Bengal government directed all district magistrates to set up holding centres for apprehended foreigners and released foreign prisoners who are awaiting deportation or repatriation, in line with Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) guidelines.
According to an official communication issued by the Home and Hill Affairs Department, districts have been asked to take necessary steps for housing individuals identified as staying illegally in the country, including those who have completed prison sentences and are awaiting deportation.
The directive, issued on May 23, instructs authorities to act as per the MHA framework on deportation and repatriation procedures for Bangladeshi nationals and Rohingyas found residing illegally in India.
— ANI
Reader Comments
I understand the need for strong borders, but we must be careful not to target genuine refugees or those who have been living here for decades. The process should be fair and humane.
Dilip Ghosh is right. Why should we allow illegal immigrants to enjoy our welfare schemes? But the government should also ensure that the deportation process follows international law and doesn't create diplomatic issues with Bangladesh.
As an outsider looking in, I find this policy quite controversial. How do you determine who is illegal without causing social unrest? The demographic impact on West Bengal is already significant.
The 'delete, detect, deport' policy sounds harsh, but what's the alternative? Let them continue to exploit our system? At least now there's a clear plan. Better late than never. 👏
I'm concerned about the human rights aspect. The Rohingyas are fleeing persecution, and sending them back could put them in danger. India should lead by example in handling such crises with compassion.
This is exactly what we need! Our resources are already stretched thin. Why should we support people who aren't even Indian citizens? Let them go back and develop their own country. Jai Hind! ✊
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