Claims Emerge of Targeted Deportations of Muslims in India

Reports have surfaced alleging that India is involved in the deportations of Muslims to Bangladesh without legal proceedings, raising concerns about ethnic profiling and human rights violations. These actions, reportedly intensified since May 2025, involve Bengali-speaking Muslims and Rohingya refugees, many of whom are low-wage workers in states governed by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Officials in India assert that those deported are undocumented migrants, a stance tied to the government’s firm position on immigration from neighboring Bangladesh. However, activists and legal experts argue that these deportations lack due process, with some individuals holding valid Indian documents being forcibly removed. In Assam, the state’s chief minister reported over 300 deportations, while Gujarat authorities detained thousands, though many were later released after being identified as Indian citizens.

Human rights groups have highlighted cases of families separated and individuals, including a disabled grandmother, being sent across borders despite possessing documentation proving their Indian citizenship. Posts on X reflect growing alarm, with some users describing these actions as ethnically motivated, though these claims remain unverified and require cautious interpretation.

The situation has drawn criticism from regional leaders, with West Bengal’s chief minister accusing authorities of targeting Bengali-speaking Muslims based on language and religion. Bangladesh has emphasized the need for verified legal processes, noting that some deported individuals were repatriated after being confirmed as Indian nationals.

These developments have sparked debate about India’s immigration policies and their impact on minority communities, prompting calls for transparency and adherence to legal standards. The issue remains under scrutiny as affected families and advocates demand accountability.

Published in SouthAsianDesk, June 27th, 2025

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