Odisha Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan on Saturday assured that there has been no report of an influx of Bangladeshi nationals into the state through the sea route.
Harichandan stated that the state government is committed to identifying and repatriating any illegal Bangladeshi immigrants residing in Odisha.
Addressing concerns raised by journalists, Harichandan clarified that Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has already instructed the Coast Guard and Odisha Marine Police to intensify patrolling along the state’s coastline to prevent any unauthorised entry via the sea route.
“There have been no reports of any such influx after the recent incidents in Bangladesh,” the minister said.
The state’s 480-kilometre-long coastline is currently under a robust three-tier security system.
The first five nautical miles are patrolled by Odisha’s Marine Police, while the waters between five nautical miles and 80 kilometres from the coast are monitored by the Coast Guard.
The Indian Navy also patrols the international waters, providing an additional layer of security.
In response to concerns about the presence of illegal Bangladeshi immigrants already in the state, Harichandan noted that the government is conducting a thorough verification process.
The documents of individuals residing in the state, including visas and work permits, are being scrutinized. Those found without valid reasons to stay will be sent back to Bangladesh.
Odisha Police has confirmed that stringent measures are being implemented to maintain coastal security.
“Our security apparatus is in place, and all potential threats are being closely monitored,” said a senior police official.
Government sources indicate that a total of 3,740 illegal Bangladeshi immigrants have been identified across seven districts in Odisha.
Among these, 1,649 individuals have been found in Kendrapara, 1,112 in Jagatsinghpur, and 655 in Malkangiri. The state government is reportedly working on plans to expedite the repatriation process for these individuals.
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