A State-Wide Sweep Begins
The Odisha government has launched a decisive operation to identify and remove undocumented Bangladeshi immigrants from the state workforce. In a significant step toward enforcing immigration laws and safeguarding employment for legal residents, the administration has begun implementing strict measures targeting illegal foreign nationals—especially those employed by outsourcing firms and private sector companies.
Crackdown on Illegal Employment
State Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan, addressing the media on Monday, confirmed that no outsourcing agency, government body, or private company would be permitted to employ undocumented Bangladeshi nationals. “We have a stated position to identify Bangladeshis staying illegally in the state. Now, we will make sure that no Bangladeshi is engaged through any outsourcing company,” the minister declared, underlining the administration’s zero-tolerance approach.
Employers across Odisha, particularly in infrastructure and services sectors, have been directed to conduct comprehensive background checks on their workforce. Any failure to comply with these directives will attract penal action under the Foreigners Act, a powerful legal tool in curbing unlawful residency and employment.
Special Task Force to Lead Operation
The Special Task Force (STF) of the Odisha Crime Branch has been designated the nodal agency to lead this multi-agency crackdown. STF DIG Pinak Mishra revealed that the task force will work in tandem with the Marine Police, Indian Coast Guard, Railway Protection Force (RPF), local police units, and intelligence agencies.
New operational guidelines are being framed to establish a robust identification protocol. This includes verifying residency documents, mapping infiltration-prone areas, and setting up public reporting mechanisms to flag suspected illegal residents.
Focus on Vulnerable Coastal Regions
The campaign is being rolled out in a phased manner, with an initial spotlight on six coastal districts—Kendrapada, Jagatsinghpur, Bhadrak, Puri, Balasore, and Ganjam. These regions, due to their proximity to sea routes, have been identified as vulnerable entry points for undocumented migration from Bangladesh.
According to government data, 3,740 Bangladeshi nationals were identified as illegal residents in Odisha as of 2021, with Kendrapada (1,649) and Jagatsinghpur (1,112) topping the list. Officials believe these figures have likely grown, reinforcing the urgency of the current operation.
Striking a Balance Between Security and Humanitarian Responsibility
Odisha’s intensified efforts reflect a broader national concern over illegal immigration and its impact on economic and social stability. While the state’s initiative underscores a commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting employment for its citizens, it also raises questions about the need for humane and transparent deportation mechanisms.
As Odisha strengthens its internal security and administrative vigilance, the challenge ahead lies in ensuring that enforcement does not compromise basic human rights. A balanced, lawful, and fair process will be key to the credibility and effectiveness of this crackdown.
(With agency inputs)
