Delhi seeks Dhaka’s cooperation on deportation of 'illegal Bangladeshis'

India has sought Bangladesh’s cooperation in repatriating individuals identified as “illegal Bangladeshi nationals” staying in the country, according to the Indian Ministry of External Affairs.

Speaking at a weekly media briefing on Thursday (May 7), ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the issue of deportation should be viewed in a broader context, adding that cooperation from Bangladesh is necessary for the process.

He said more than 2,862 cases related to citizenship verification are currently pending in India, some of which have remained unresolved for over five years.

Jaiswal made the remarks while responding to questions linked to a statement by Bangladesh Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman following recent political developments in India’s West Bengal.

Responding to allegations of “pushbacks” of individuals across the border by Indian border forces, the spokesperson said appropriate measures would be taken as required in such cases.