Dhaka: India on Thursday emphasized the need for Bangladesh to expedite the nationality verification process for the repatriation of illegal Bangladeshi immigrants. This request comes in light of recent remarks made by Bangladesh concerning alleged 'pushback' incidents.
According to United News of Bangladesh, spokesperson at the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, Randhir Jaiswal, addressed reporters, urging Bangladesh to speed up the pending nationality verification cases. Jaiswal highlighted the importance of viewing Bangladesh's comments within the context of the ongoing repatriation issue involving illegal Bangladeshi immigrants in India.
During a weekly media briefing, Jaiswal remarked, "We expect that Bangladesh will expedite nationality verification so that the repatriation of illegal immigrants can take place in a smooth manner." He further noted that cooperation from Bangladesh is crucial for resolving the core issue of illegal immigration.
Jaiswal revealed that over 2,860 nationality verification cases were still pending with Bangladesh, some of which have awaited clearance for more than five years. He reiterated India's stance that individuals residing illegally in the country, regardless of their nationality, would be dealt with according to the law.
Previously, Bangladesh's Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed expressed hope that there would be no forced repatriation of individuals into Bangladesh following the BJP's victory in assembly elections in bordering Indian states. However, he indicated that the Border Guard Bangladesh had been instructed to remain vigilant along the border.