Data released by the Karnataka Home Department reveals that 771 illegal Bangladeshi immigrants have been identified over the last three years, with the majority residing in Bengaluru.
- 771 illegal Bangladeshi immigrants identified across Karnataka in the last 3 years.
- 656 individuals were located in Bengaluru city, while 44 were in Bengaluru district.
- 572 immigrants have been deported, and 57 remain under arrest.
- 'Project Mukta' has been launched to monitor and detain illegal migrants.
The Karnataka Home Department has released significant data regarding illegal migration within the state. According to the latest figures, state police have identified 771 illegal Bangladeshi immigrants residing across Karnataka over the past three years. This information was presented by Home Minister Priyank Kharge in response to a query from Aravind Bellad, MLA from Hubballi-Dharwad West.
The geographical distribution of these individuals highlights a heavy concentration in urban centers. Out of the total identified, 656 were found in Bengaluru city and 44 in the Bengaluru district. Other areas including Mangaluru and Kolar also reported findings, with 23 and 12 suspected immigrants identified respectively. Most of those identified were reportedly working in low-income sectors, specifically as rag-pickers.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that the concentration of undocumented migrants in metropolitan hubs like Bengaluru poses complex challenges for urban planning, resource allocation, and national security. The state's shift toward digital tracking indicates a systemic move to tighten border and internal security protocols.
The implementation of specialized task forces and digital identification portals marks a strategic escalation in the state's crackdown on illegal residency.
To combat this issue, the state is utilizing the District Police Module and the Foreigners Identification Portal. Furthermore, a special task force has been established to streamline the identification, detention, and deportation processes. In Bengaluru, Deputy Commissioners of Police are overseeing a dedicated operation titled 'Project Mukta'.
The crackdown has not been without controversy. The Bengaluru City Police recently conducted a drive in the Whitefield division, identifying 105 suspected illegal nationals. Additionally, legal action has been taken against individuals accused of spreading misinformation or committing violence against suspected migrants. Notably, cases have been filed against activists including Puneeth Kerehalli and Nagendrappa Shiruru for alleged assaults on suspected Bangladeshi nationals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1: What is 'Project Mukta'?
Answer: 'Project Mukta' is a specialized police operation in Bengaluru aimed at monitoring and identifying illegal migrants.
Question 2: How many people have been deported so far?
Answer: Out of the 771 identified, 572 individuals have already been deported.