Border Vulnerabilities: Infiltration from Bangladesh Under Scrutiny in Malda District

Reports of illegal infiltration from Bangladesh into West Bengal, particularly through border areas in Malda district, continue to raise alarm. Key regions such as Habibpur, Muchia, and Baishnabnagar, which serve as critical border points between India and Bangladesh, have reportedly become frequent entry routes for Bangladeshi nationals.

A recent incident in Malda has brought renewed attention to the issue. A suspected infiltrator, identified as Shahidul from the Mollapara area in Jessore, Bangladesh, was apprehended in the Shrirampur area of the Habibpur Assembly constituency. Local villagers detained Shahidul after noticing his suspicious behavior over several days. Upon interrogation, Shahidul claimed he had been sent to India by a local Chairman from Jessore with the intention of purchasing land. He further alleged that others had entered the country through similar means.

Lacking a passport, visa, or any identification documents, Shahidul was handed over to the police for further investigation.

Concerns have been raised over vulnerabilities in border security, particularly in regions where there are no barbed-wire fences. Reports indicate that some infiltrators have also used water routes to cross into Indian territory. Shahidul's statement about being sent by a local Bangladeshi official has further fueled allegations that such activities may have the tacit support of local authorities in Bangladesh.

The political implications of this issue have sparked debate within West Bengal. The ruling Trinamool Congress has criticized the Border Security Force (BSF) for its perceived inability to curb infiltrations. Trinamool leader Dulal Sarkar alleged that this problem has persisted since the Left Front's rule, with infiltrators being provided ration cards and voter IDs during that time.

“This infiltration has been happening since the Left Front rule. Large groups of people have entered, occupied land, and engaged in business activities,” said Sarkar, further blaming previous administrations and local leaders for facilitating these activities.

The incident underscores the need for stronger border management and a coordinated response to address the security and political concerns arising from these ongoing infiltrations.