Tripura CM Dr. Saha said illegal infiltration from Bangladesh has declined over the past six months. Enhanced border surveillance, increased detentions, and coordination with central forces are key factors. The Tipra Motha Party demands further action against undocumented Bangladeshi immigrants in the state.
In the backdrop of ongoing concerns over illegal infiltration from neighboring Bangladesh, Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha has clarified that the situation is under control and, contrary to popular belief, infiltration has actually decreased over the past six months. His statement comes amid growing political and public interest in border security and the demographic impact of illegal immigration in the northeastern state.
Addressing reporters at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) headquarters in Agartala on Tuesday, Dr. Saha remarked, “It is widely believed that infiltration has spiked, but the reality is different. If we consider the last six months, infiltration hasn’t increased much; rather, it has decreased to an extent. The security forces are doing their duties very diligently, and in the border areas, we are making every attempt to prevent infiltration bids with enhanced surveillance.”
Tripura, which shares an 856-kilometer-long international border with Bangladesh, has historically faced challenges relating to cross-border movement. The porous nature of certain stretches, especially those without proper fencing, often serves as a potential entry point for unauthorized immigrants. Recognizing these challenges, the Chief Minister emphasized the need for robust border infrastructure. “During the plenary session, I raised the issue of the border conditions of the state. In some areas, the barbed wire fencing is weak, while in other patches, the fencing is totally absent,” he said.
Dr. Saha also noted that the state government is actively coordinating with the central government to improve security mechanisms along the international border. “Even during my personal meetings, I raised the issue with our central leaders. Apart from that, I reviewed the situation with the security forces and Border Security Force (BSF). The detention of illegal immigrants has increased substantially because of our efforts,” he added.
The Chief Minister was keen to underline that Tripura’s actions are part of a broader national initiative. “This is not a standalone exercise for Tripura. In all the states that share borders with Bangladesh, similar exercises are being carried out,” he pointed out, reinforcing that border security is a coordinated effort involving both state and central agencies.
The issue of illegal immigration has remained a politically sensitive subject in Tripura, especially with growing demands for stricter actions. The Tipra Motha Party, a significant ally of the BJP in the state’s coalition government, has consistently raised concerns over the presence of undocumented Bangladeshi nationals. The party has called for an immediate and comprehensive operation to detect and deport Bangladeshi immigrants living in the state without valid documentation.
The demand reflects deep-rooted anxieties among local communities over cultural, economic, and demographic shifts. In response to these demands, the Chief Minister’s comments can be seen as a reassurance that the government is not only aware of the ground realities but is also proactively engaged in strengthening security and policy implementation.
Observers believe that the government’s emphasis on surveillance and fencing comes at a crucial juncture when national attention is increasingly turning towards securing borders in the face of complex geopolitical challenges. With elections in various states approaching and migration remaining a central issue, the current administration’s focus on reducing infiltration may also play a role in shaping political narratives.
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While the numbers of illegal entrants may have gone down, Dr. Saha’s statements underline the importance of vigilance, investment in border infrastructure, and the role of multi-agency coordination in achieving lasting solutions. It remains to be seen how quickly the issues of unfenced patches and weak border infrastructure will be addressed, but the Chief Minister’s remarks signal intent and action on part of the state government.
As Tripura continues to monitor and tighten its border controls, the message from the top is clear: illegal infiltration is being taken seriously, and comprehensive efforts are underway to ensure the state’s demographic and national security remain intact.
