In Delhi, a recent police operation has screened over 16,000 Bengali speakers individuals to identify “illegal” Bangladeshi immigrants, stirring fear and debate across communities. Launched in December 2024 after orders from Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena, the drive targets migrant workers in slums, transit hubs, and labor chowks. Families are anxious, unsure if their documents will protect them from deportation.
Citizen Response
“They checked my voter ID and Aadhaar, but I’m still scared,” said Bulbul, a resident of Bengali Basti in Vasant Kunj, where many feel targeted for their language and attire. Critics, including Human Rights Watch, argue the process lacks transparency, with some Indian citizens mistakenly detained. “This isn’t just about immigration; it’s about dignity,” said a local activist on X, reflecting widespread concern.
Deportation of Bengali Speakers
The operation has led to deportations through the Foreigners Regional Registration Office, with Delhi leading other states in sending back over 1,200 individuals. Yet, stories of harassment and racial profiling are rising, with some alleging police rely on vague tips or dialects to flag suspects. A song shared on X captures the sentiment: “Just because I wear a lungi, I’m called Bangladeshi.”
As political tensions flare, with parties trading accusations, the human cost is clear. Families fear separation, and communities feel stigmatized. The debate over illegal immigration continues to divide, leaving many to wonder: where is the line between security and fairness?
Published in SouthAsianDesk, August 8th, 2025
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