Tripura Police apprehended sixteen Rohingya nationals at the Dharmanagar Inter State Bus Terminus on Friday. The group, which included several minors, reportedly entered India illegally from Bangladesh. The police action followed a tip-off about suspicious individuals at the bus terminus.
According to Superintendent of Police Kiran Kumar, the Rohingya nationals were detained during a routine check. They failed to produce any valid travel documents, raising immediate suspicion. Upon further questioning, it was revealed that they had crossed into India from Bangladesh and were planning to travel to different parts of the country.
The group comprised seven men, five women, and four children. They were taken into custody and brought to Agartala for further interrogation. Authorities are investigating the route they took to enter India and whether they had any local assistance.
The incident has highlighted the ongoing issue of illegal immigration in the region. Tripura shares a long and porous border with Bangladesh, making it a hotspot for illegal crossings. The state has been grappling with this issue for years, with many immigrants seeking to enter India for better opportunities or to escape persecution.
Chief Minister Manik Saha emphasized the need for stricter border controls and increased vigilance to prevent such incidents. He praised the police for their swift action and reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding the state’s borders.
“We are working closely with central agencies to address the issue of illegal immigration. The safety and security of our citizens are of paramount importance,” the Chief Minister said.
The detained Rohingya nationals have been provided with necessary food and medical aid. Child welfare officials have also been engaged to ensure the well-being of the minors. The group will be presented before the court, and legal proceedings will follow as per the law.
Human rights organizations have expressed concern about the treatment of the detained Rohingyas, urging the authorities to handle the situation with sensitivity and to ensure that the detainees’ rights are respected.
The issue of Rohingya refugees has been a matter of international concern, with thousands fleeing persecution in Myanmar. Many have sought refuge in neighboring countries, including Bangladesh and India, leading to complex humanitarian and legal challenges.
This recent incident in Tripura underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to address the plight of Rohingya refugees and the challenges posed by illegal immigration.
