Satkhira, May 17 (V7N) — Lieutenant General (Retd.) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, Advisor on Home Affairs to the interim government, has stated that any illegal Bangladeshis residing in India should be returned through proper formal channels. He made these remarks amid recent protests concerning Indian push-in incidents along the border.

Speaking at the inauguration of the Border Guard Bangladesh’s (BGB) floating Border Outpost (BOP) in Shyamnagar, Satkhira, on Saturday (May 17), the Advisor said the push-in incidents at various border points, including the Sundarbans, do not appear to be provocative.

He noted that many of those involved in push-ins include Rohingyas and individuals holding UNHCR cards. The matter is currently being addressed through diplomatic channels. The government is maintaining a firm stance against unauthorized border crossings.

Regarding the nationality of those crossing from India, Lieutenant General Chowdhury explained that Bangladeshis entering India illegally will not be forcibly pushed back but will be repatriated through official procedures. Indian nationals and Rohingyas will also be sent back following formal processes.

He urged cooperation from all parties, saying, “If everyone cooperates at this time, India will not be able to carry out push-ins.”

END/MSS/AJ