Meghalaya: VPP Calls for Enhanced Security Along Bangladesh Border After Illegal Infiltration Reports

SHILLONG: The Voice of the People Party (VPP) has called on the central government to strengthen security measures along the 443-km international border with Bangladesh following reports of Bangladeshi nationals entering India through Meghalaya.

VPP spokesperson Batskhem Myrboh expressed concern over the situation, describing it as alarming. He stressed the need for immediate action to prevent further illegal infiltration. "This concerns the international border. The Centre must take proactive steps, and the BSF should enhance its vigilance along the porous border," Myrboh said. He also noted that the political situation in Bangladesh could lead to more citizens seeking refuge in India, further exacerbating the vulnerability of the border. Myrboh urged states in the Northeast, particularly those bordering Bangladesh, to remain on high alert.

In a related development, Delhi police arrested four individuals, including a couple, as part of an investigation into a network involving Indian and Bangladeshi nationals who facilitated the illegal settlement of Bangladeshi immigrants in India. The couple, identified as Hosen and his wife, reportedly entered India through Meghalaya's porous border with the help of two Indian nationals.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (South), Ankit Chauhan, revealed that the investigation led to Aminur Islam, a resident of Goalpara in Assam, who allegedly helped transport illegal immigrants from Meghalaya’s border to railway stations in Assam. The police have uncovered a large syndicate involved in aiding Bangladeshis to settle illegally in Delhi, with several arrests made, and further interrogations are underway.

The syndicate, using the so-called “donkey route,” employed long treks to bypass official checkpoints. Police outlined that the first module operated from Durgapur in Bangladesh to Baghmara in India, facilitated by Anish Shaikh. Subsequent modules transported the infiltrators from Baghmara to Krishnai in Assam, and then to Kolkata via train or bus. These modules were led by Aminur Islam.

Authorities are ramping up efforts to dismantle the network and prevent further illegal activities along the Bangladesh-India border.

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