Security authorities have initiated a major deportation operation targeting undocumented foreign nationals traced in Jammu and Kashmir. A group of 150 Bangladeshi nationals detected residing without legal documentation was transported to West Bengal for repatriation. The entire group was flown out of Srinagar aboard an Indian Air Force aircraft and landed at Bagdogra airport, where they were transferred to the North Bengal Frontier of the Border Security Force (BSF) for further operational measures.
Detention Center Lodging and Repatriation Protocols
Following their arrival, the individuals are slated to be housed inside a dedicated detention facility while the administration initiates necessary verification and diplomatic procedures. An official explained that authorities will attempt to repatriate them through formal, bilateral channels. However, if Bangladeshi authorities decline to acknowledge or accept them, the standard alternative procedure will be implemented to push the undocumented migrants back across the international border. Officials indicated that this operation is likely to take place on October 7.
Phased Pushback Strategy Along the Zero Line
Explaining the tactical mechanism, an official stated that repatriation operations are typically executed in phased segments across designated stretches of the border. Under this protocol, the undocumented migrants are guided past the perimeter fencing and positioned near the Zero Line, from where they cross independently into Bangladesh. The BSF in West Bengal has executed several similar operations in the past. Undocumented Bangladeshi nationals apprehended across various parts of India are routinely routed through West Bengal to facilitate their transfer across the border. Officials noted that while Bangladeshi counterparts cooperate and formally accept their nationals in certain cases, there are instances where they refuse to assume responsibility.
Transfers from Multiple States to West Bengal
According to authorities, additional groups of undocumented migrants currently held in Jammu and Kashmir could be shifted to other locations in the coming days. Consequently, more Bangladeshi citizens could be brought to West Bengal for subsequent repatriation. This mechanism follows an established pattern, as undocumented Bangladeshi migrants intercepted in states such as Gujarat, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, and Karnataka have previously been transported through West Bengal to carry out border expulsions.
Deportation Statistics and Ongoing Verification Drives
Official records show that in 2026 alone, approximately 4,800 to 5,000 undocumented migrants were deported to Bangladesh via West Bengal routes. Historical data presented in Parliament by the Ministry of External Affairs reveals that 23,653 individuals were deported between 2009 and 2011. Furthermore, data released by the Ministry of Home Affairs highlighted that 28,131 undocumented migrants were repatriated up to 2014. With several states actively carrying out the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, authorities project that identification efforts will broaden, potentially resulting in further deportations over the coming months.
