The West Bengal administration has established ‘holding centers’ in the state to provide temporary accommodation to illegal infiltrators before they are handed over to the Border Security Force (BSF) for repatriation. These centers offer proper lodging, hygienic food, and treatment facilities. The state government aims to ensure fair treatment for the infiltrators before their return to their home country.
The decision to place illegal Bangladeshi infiltrators in these centers aligns with the new government’s policy. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari emphasized the humane treatment of infiltrators, directing the police not to take them to court but to feed them adequately before transferring them to the BSF. A temporary holding center at the Hakimpur border has been handling a significant number of infiltrators returning to Bangladesh.
The holding centers provide amenities such as multiple ceiling fans, a nutritious menu including fish and meat, and special care for children with milk and baby food. Despite being infiltrators, they receive new clothes, toiletries, and proper bathing facilities. The state government, in collaboration with local authorities, ensures that the infiltrators are well-cared for during their stay in these centers.
Malda Superintendent of Police, Anupam Singh, confirmed that accommodations and food arrangements are in place at the holding centers. The administration, supported by Self-Help Groups, provides meals four times a day. The first holding center in north Bengal, located in Malda district, is equipped with security measures like halogen lights and CCTV cameras to ensure the safety of the occupants.
