Bhubaneswar, November 17: Dr. Satyajit Naik, the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of the Central Range in Cuttack, has said that law enforcement agencies will step up their efforts to crack down on illegal immigration, especially in the coastal regions of Odisha. This comes in the wake of a recent demolition drive in Jagatsinghpur, aimed at properties linked to a suspected Bangladeshi national, as part of an ongoing operation to combat illegal immigration.
Addressing the media in Jagatsinghpur, Dr. Naik informed that the Chief Minister, Mohan Charan Majhi, had instructed the launch of a special initiative to identify and deal with illegal migrants across the state. He urged law enforcement to remain vigilant and take decisive action to prevent the resurgence of unlawful activities associated with undocumented immigrants. He reassured the public that stringent measures would be implemented to address this growing concern.
On Monday, Dr. Naik, accompanied by the District Collector and the Superintendent of Police of Jagatsinghpur, visited Beherampur Basti, situated within the jurisdiction of Sadar Police Station, where a demolition operation had taken place. The operation targeted illegal structures, including a residence belonging to a suspected Bangladeshi national. A total of 10 houses were demolished, with bulldozers used to tear down the illegal constructions.
The property in question had been built four years ago by Sikandar Alam, also known as Siku. Authorities allege that Alam was involved in facilitating the illegal entry of Bangladeshi migrants into the region, offering them employment. The case came to light after authorities rescued several children, believed to be non-Indian nationals, from the area just days before the demolition.
The demolition operation was met with violent resistance from some individuals, leading to injuries sustained by the Additional SP during the confrontation. A subsequent raid at the premises led to the seizure of a firearm and multiple sharp weapons.
In response to the events, the district administration has adopted a strong stance, ordering the continued demolition of unauthorized properties and the severing of illegal electricity connections. The Tehsildar confirmed that the demolition drive will be expanded across the district. So far, four individuals have been detained for questioning, with efforts underway to track down additional suspects involved in the illicit activities.
