Sir — This refers to reports that the Ministry of External Affairs had proposed visa-free entry to certain groups of Bangladeshi citizens. This was an appeasement of Bangladesh rather than an attempt to resolve vexed issues with the neighbouring country. The main issue is the illegal immigration of Bangladeshis. Prime Minister Narendra Modi needs to recall his statement during an election rally that he would send illegal Bangladeshi immigrants packing if he came to power. This had evoked sharp criticism from West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. What prompted the External Affairs Ministry to sing a different tune now, is not understandable.
Decades of unchecked inflow of Bangladeshis speaks volumes about the incompetence of the previous Governments. What would India have gained if visa-on-arrival was granted to BangladeshisIJ It would have posed more problems for Assam, making it even more difficult to check illegalities. Assam is already reeling under the pressure of illegal immigrants which has disturbed the State’s demographic profile and caused tensions.
The continuing illegal entry of Bangladeshis must stop. Deporting illegal occupants is the next course of action. Then, boundary disputes and sharing of river waters have to be resolved. Trade and transit facilities must also be expanded to benefit both countries.