Assam has deported 18 foreign nationals who were found to have entered the state illegally, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said, reiterating what he described as the government’s firm and decisive approach to border security. The announcement was made through a post on social media platform X, without disclosing the identities or countries of origin of those deported.
In his post, Sarma framed the action as part of Assam’s broader priorities of security and development. Using sharp language, he said while illegal entrants sought to destabilise the region, the state government remained focused on growth and enforcement. He added that Assam was vigilant and resolute in dealing with unlawful cross-border movement.
Assam shares a 267.5-km-long international border with Bangladesh, spanning the districts of Sribhumi, Cachar, Dhubri and South Salmara-Mankachar, making it one of the most sensitive corridors for cross-border movement in the Northeast. The state hosts an Integrated Check Post at Sutarkandi in Sribhumi, one of three such facilities along the India-Bangladesh border in the region, alongside ICPs at Dawki in Meghalaya and Akhaura in Tripura. Assam also has an ICP at Darranga on the India-Bhutan border.
Security agencies have repeatedly stressed the need for heightened vigilance in the area, particularly following political unrest in Bangladesh last year. Assam Police have earlier stated that, in coordination with the Border Security Force, they would act strictly in accordance with the law to prevent illegal entry by foreign nationals from across the border.
At the same time, authorities have clarified that Indian passport holders stranded in Bangladesh would continue to be permitted to return through designated entry points in Assam. The latest deportation, officials said, reflects the state’s continued focus on enforcing border regulations while balancing humanitarian considerations for Indian citizens.
