India has called for increased cooperation from Bangladesh to facilitate the repatriation of illegal immigrants, specifically urging the acceleration of pending nationality verification processes.
During a weekly briefing on Thursday, May 7, 2026, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that the core issue remains the repatriation of illegal Bangladeshis from India. He noted that over 2,862 cases of nationality verification are currently pending with Bangladesh, with some cases remaining unresolved for more than five years.
Diplomatic Tension Over Border Actions
The call for cooperation follows statements from Bangladesh Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman regarding reports of “push in” incidents by Indian border guards. Mr. Rahman indicated that Bangladesh would take necessary measures on the issue, citing previous protests when the Chief Minister of Assam admitted to taking similar actions.
India’s official position is that all illegal foreign nationals staying within the country must be repatriated according to established laws, procedures, and bilateral arrangements. Mr. Jaiswal emphasized that expedited verification is essential for repatriation to occur in a smooth manner.
Political Shifts and “Saffron Pressure”
The current friction coincides with the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) victory in West Bengal elections and the return of the Himanta Biswa Sarma government in Assam. Commentator Altaf Parvez, writing in the daily Prothom Alo, suggested these political outcomes have increased “saffron pressure” on Bangladesh’s eastern and western borders.
This term refers to accusations made by BJP leaders in West Bengal and Assam concerning alleged illegal immigration from Bangladesh into India.
Recent Enforcement in Assam
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma reported that 20 foreign nationals were apprehended in Assam and pushed back to Bangladesh on April 26, 2026. While the Chief Minister did not provide details on the nationality of the individuals or the specific location of their apprehension, he asserted that “Assam will fight” and that “pushbacks will continue.”
Potential Future Developments
Given the current rhetoric, diplomatic relations may face further strain if “push-in” incidents continue to be reported. Bangladesh could potentially increase its protests or implement its own measures in response to border enforcement actions.
Conversely, a possible next step could involve a renewed bilateral effort to clear the backlog of nationality verification cases, which may be necessary to avoid further escalations along the frontier.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is India requesting from Bangladesh?
India is pressing Bangladesh for cooperation in the repatriation of illegal immigrants, specifically requesting that they expedite the nationality verification process.
How many nationality verification cases are pending?
According to MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, there are over 2,862 pending cases, some of which have been outstanding for over five years.
What recent actions were taken in Assam regarding immigrants?
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma stated that 20 foreign nationals were apprehended and pushed back to Bangladesh on April 26, 2026.
How should nations balance domestic security mandates with bilateral diplomatic obligations during periods of political transition?
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