The Delhi Police carried out search operations in slum areas across the national capital on Wednesday as part of an ongoing investigation into Bangladeshi infiltration. The operations were conducted during the night to ensure families were present at home for easier verification.
Official Statement and Deportation Efforts
West Delhi DCP Vichitra Veer stated,
“The purpose of conducting the campaign at night is that people go to work during the day. At night, all family members are found at home, which makes verification easier.”
He added that the process of deporting 10 Bangladeshi nationals had already commenced in West Delhi, with similar actions underway in other districts.
Political Reactions
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has accused the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government of providing voter ID cards and Aadhaar cards to Rohingya and Bangladeshi immigrants, allegedly to secure votes.
On Monday, Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena raised concerns about the involvement of illegal Bangladeshi and Rohingya immigrants in criminal activities. His statement came after a high-profile incident in Mumbai where a Bangladeshi national was arrested for a break-in and assault on actor Saif Ali Khan.
Special Campaign for Identification
In light of these concerns, Saxena directed the Delhi Police Commissioner to launch a special operation to identify and apprehend illegal immigrants.
A letter dated January 20 from the L-G Secretariat highlighted the need for a mission-mode campaign and public awareness initiatives to:
- Encourage verification of employees, domestic help, and workers, especially in construction, to enhance public security.
- Identify infiltrators residing in Delhi.
Background
This operation follows Saxena’s directive in December 2024, where he instructed the Delhi Chief Secretary and Police Commissioner to launch a two-month drive to identify and act against illegal immigrants.
The issue of illegal immigration remains a contentious topic, drawing sharp political debates and concerns over national security and urban safety.