There has been a notable increase in the number of Bangladeshis attempting to enter India through the Nepal border. In 2025, Indian security forces apprehended several Bangladeshis trying to cross over illegally. Officials highlight a new trend where touts from Bangladesh, collaborating with Indian counterparts, are utilizing the Nepal route due to heightened security along the Indo-Bangladesh border.
Following the unrest in Bangladesh post Sheikh Hasina’s removal, Indian agencies are on high alert. Despite numerous thwarted attempts to infiltrate northeastern states and West Bengal, touts are exploring the Nepal route to smuggle illegal immigrants into India. The infiltration route near Raxaul in Bihar’s East Champaran district is currently being tested by these touts, with warnings of potential larger-scale operations in the future.
Apart from Raxaul, touts have also attempted to send illegal immigrants through Bahraich, Gonda, and Balrampur districts. The Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) has heightened vigilance, deploying 1,700 personnel along the Indo-Nepal border to prevent illegal immigration. Additionally, 9,000 personnel are stationed across various districts to curb this activity, as per intelligence reports.
Concerns are raised over a large number of Bangladeshis sheltering near the Nepal border, waiting to enter India unlawfully. Officials caution that these immigrants are part of a larger plan to create demographic changes and potentially engage in terror activities. With the ISI’s involvement in Bangladesh, the focus has shifted to the Nepal border for illegal immigration due to heightened security along the Bangladesh border.
Intelligence Bureau officials anticipate increased attempts in the coming months, especially with a focus on the West Bengal elections. The facilitators of illegal immigration are expected to exploit the situation during the elections, utilizing the Nepal border. The upcoming months pose challenges for Indian security agencies, particularly concerning the evolving situation in Bangladesh.
