India on Friday accused Bangladesh of delaying the nationality verification process of suspected illegal Bangladeshi nationals staying in India, with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stating that thousands of cases have remained pending for years.
Addressing a media briefing in New Delhi, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India had shared the details of more than 2,680 individuals with the Bangladeshi authorities for nationality verification. “All illegal nationals who are staying in India will be dealt with as per the law,” Jaiswal said, adding that deportation could proceed only after Dhaka confirmed their nationality.
The MEA spokesperson noted that several verification requests had been pending “for more than five years or so” and expressed hope for an “early response” from Bangladesh. According to Jaiswal, the repatriation process is being carried out under existing bilateral mechanisms between the two countries.
The remarks come amid growing political and diplomatic tensions over illegal immigration and border management issues between India and Bangladesh. Bangladesh has previously raised concerns over alleged “pushback” operations and warned against any unilateral action involving undocumented migrants.
India, however, reiterated that its policy remains focused on deporting illegal foreign nationals in accordance with the law and established procedures. “We expect Bangladesh to expedite nationality verification so that the repatriation of illegal immigrants can take place smoothly,” Jaiswal said.
The issue has gained political attention particularly in eastern and northeastern states bordering Bangladesh, where illegal immigration remains a sensitive electoral and security concern.
