Mechanisms in place to address illegal migration: India

Pallab Bhattacharya, New Delhi
India and Bangladesh have put in place mechanisms, including a coordinated border management plan, to address the issue of illegal migration and enhance cooperation between border guarding forces, Indian government told the Rajya Sabha yesterday. In a written reply, External Affairs Minister SM Krishna said the issue of illegal migration is regularly discussed at relevant bilateral meetings, including Joint Working Group on Security, Director General and Home Secretary level talks and Home Ministry level consultations. “India and Bangladesh have put in place mechanisms, including a coordinated border management plan, to address the issues arising from illegal border crossings and incidents on the border and to enhance cooperation between the border guarding forces of the two countries,” he said. On measures to prevent cross-border activities, Krishna said the two sides were cooperating in identifying vulnerable patches along the border and taking appropriate steps to prevent illegal activities, including illegal movement. On deportation of illegal migrants, Krishna said, “Any Bangladesh national apprehended for illegal stay in India is deported back to Bangladesh after observing due procedure as per existing laws.”