Bangladesh Warns Against Illegal Foreign Nationals Amidst Diplomatic Tensions with India

Dhaka, Dec 09, (V7N) - The Government of Bangladesh has issued a stern warning regarding the presence of illegal foreign nationals in the country, emphasizing that no foreigner will be allowed to reside in Bangladesh unlawfully. This statement was reinforced by Lieutenant General (Retd.) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, Home Affairs Adviser, during a press briefing on Sunday.

The Ministry of Home Affairs released an official notification urging all illegal foreign nationals to regularize their status by obtaining valid documentation. Failure to comply will result in strict legal action. The notice, signed by Senior Home Secretary Mohammad Abdul Momen and Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser (Home Affairs) Khoda Bakhsh Chowdhury, explicitly outlined the government's position on the issue.

Call for Compliance

The official notification stated:
“All foreign nationals residing or working in Bangladesh without proper authorization are requested to immediately regularize their stay by obtaining the necessary documentation. Failure to do so will result in legal consequences.”

This move comes after a High Court directive on May 28, which instructed authorities to ascertain the number of legal and illegal foreign workers in Bangladesh. The court also ordered an investigation into the channels through which these workers remit money abroad.

Claims of Massive Illegal Foreign Workforce

In February, the “Drive Out Illegal Foreigners Movement” claimed during a press conference that over 1 million illegal foreign workers reside in Bangladesh. Supreme Court lawyer Barrister M. Sarwar Hossain, the movement's general secretary, made these assertions. Additionally, a viral Facebook post by supporters of the opposition party, Awami League, claimed that 2.6 million Indian nationals are employed under contracts in various sectors across Bangladesh. The post urged the government to terminate their employment to create opportunities for local jobseekers.

Government's Stance

At a press conference held at the Secretariat’s Home Ministry conference room, Jahangir Alam Chowdhury reiterated the government's firm stance. Without naming specific countries, he stated:
“No foreign national will be allowed to remain in Bangladesh unlawfully.”

When questioned about the suddenness of the decision, the adviser clarified:
“This is not a sudden decision. A comprehensive list of foreign nationals, their countries of origin, and duration of stay is being prepared. Decisions will be made based on this information.”

Border Security and Diplomatic Tensions

Amid ongoing diplomatic tensions with India, the government has assured that border security remains under strict control. Chowdhury said:
“We are maintaining full vigilance along the borders. Whether it’s Sylhet, Benapole, or other regions, the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) is on high alert. Illegal border crossings will not be tolerated.”

Law and Order Preparations for Festive Season

Regarding public safety during Christmas and New Year's Eve, Jahangir Alam mentioned:
“Disruptive behavior among young people on New Year’s Eve has been a concern. Preventive measures have been communicated to ensure caution. We have already prohibited the release of lanterns and fireworks. Normal bars will also remain closed on that day.”

The government’s decisive action reflects a broader effort to regulate the foreign workforce and maintain law and order, even as diplomatic strains with neighboring India persist. This initiative aims to uphold sovereignty and address the domestic employment challenges faced by Bangladeshi youth.

END/SMA/AJ/