Kohima: In light of the recent political crisis in Bangladesh, the Nagaland government has directed state police and district administrations to be on “high alert” to prevent any potential influx of illegal immigrants. This was announced by Deputy Chief Minister during a discussion in the Legislative Assembly on Thursday.
While Nagaland does not share a border with Bangladesh, the Deputy Chief Minister emphasised the importance of vigilance, particularly along the state’s borders with Assam. “Our State does not share a border with Bangladesh. Hence, the possible route for any potential immigrant, as the initiator of the debate has mentioned, will be mostly via our neighbouring state of Assam,” he said.
To prevent any demographic imbalances that could arise from an influx of migrants, he informed that the state government has implemented several precautionary measures. Deputy Commissioners and Superintendents of Police across all districts have been instructed to convene immediate District Level Security Co-ordination Committee meetings.
These meetings, involving other security agencies like Assam Rifles and Central Armed Police Forces, have already taken place, with district-specific measures being implemented to monitor and report any illegal migrant activity.
Particular attention is being given to the eight districts in Nagaland that share borders with Assam. Patton informed that the Deputy Commissioners of these districts have been instructed to maintain open communication channels with their counterparts in Assam, a directive that has resulted in seamless information sharing between the two states.
Further measures include intensified Inner Line Permit (ILP) checks and increased vigilance at all inter-state check posts. Police officers deployed at the 13 inter-state check gates have been ordered to be vigilant around the clock, with senior officers briefing troops to ensure there is no complacency.
He said that the police and intelligence agencies have identified sensitive areas, including places of religious worship, where there could be a possibility of illegal immigrants congregating. Monitoring these areas is expected to help the government take swift action if necessary.
“I am happy to report that, till date there has been no reports on influx of illegal Bangladeshi migrants. This is especially in the aftermath of the recent crisis in Bangladesh,” the Deputy Chief Minister informed the House.
He assured the public that the state government, along with the district administration and police, is fully prepared to handle any situation that may arise.
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Patton emphasised about the importance of cooperation between the government, village administrations, and civil society organisations in ensuring the security and stability of Nagaland in the wake of the ongoing crisis in Bangladesh.
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