Massive gatherings have occurred at the India-Bangladesh border due to a campaign by the new BJP government in West Bengal to remove illegal immigrants. The government has instructed officials to identify, detain, and deport those staying unlawfully. Many illegal entrants are voluntarily leaving to avoid detention, while Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has urged a swift repatriation process.
The Chief Minister has directed the police to expedite deportations without traditional court proceedings for Bangladeshi illegal immigrants. This move is deemed necessary as the presence of illegal immigrants has strained Indian systems, according to an official. Indian agencies are closely monitoring the situation to prevent radicalization efforts by the ISI along the border areas.
Dr. Abhinav Pandya, CEO of Usanas Foundation, highlighted the long-overlooked issues of demographic shifts and Islamization in India. He mentioned the ISI’s aim to alter India’s demographics and promote Islamization. Officials have noted the involvement of touts facilitating the entry of illegal immigrants, who are then targeted for radicalization by ISI operatives.
Pakistan’s unconventional tactics, including demographic manipulation, are seen as an alternative to direct conflict with India, as stated by Dr. Pandya. The ISI intends to recruit individuals with grievances, who have resided in India for an extended period, into terrorist organizations. Lt Col Ujjual Abhishek Jha (Retd), an intelligence expert, emphasized Pakistan’s strategy to portray India negatively and exploit ties with groups like Jamaat-e-Islami for radicalization activities.
The ISI’s long-term plans involve linking radicalized individuals to terror networks and straining India-Bangladesh relations. The delicate state of current relations between India and Bangladesh could be exploited by Pakistan through these activities. Officials are closely monitoring the situation, maintaining high alert levels at the borders to prevent the re-entry of radicalized elements.
