Voluntary Exits of Undocumented Migrants to Bangladesh Tripled in 2025: Govt Data

Rapid Summary

• The number of undocumented migrants, suspected to be from bangladesh, voluntarily leaving India via the eastern border has tripled in 2025 compared to 2024.
• Government data shows:

– in 2024: 1,049 individuals were apprehended while exiting India.
– Till July 15,2025: 3,536 individuals caught attempting voluntary exits.

• Migrant entries from Bangladesh dropped:

– In 2024: BSF intercepted 2,425 individuals entering India.
– Till July 15,this year: 1,372 people caught crossing into India.

• A rise in voluntary migration is linked to political changes in Bangladesh following a regime change on August 5, last year.
• Separate “pushback” measures targeting unauthorized migrants were intensified after the Pahalgam terror attack (April ’24) on MHA directives. Approximately 2,500 people have reportedly been forcibly sent back across the border since then.
• Issues emerged regarding legality:

– Claims include unlawful pushbacks executed by BSF; West Bengal’s State government intervened in cases where families sought legal action through habeas corpus petitions.
– BSF denies allegations of illegal pushbacks and has heightened vigilance against undocumented entries since August ’24.

indian Opinion Analysis

Government focus on undocumented migration reflects broader national security concerns amplified post-Pahalgam attack and regional political shifts in neighboring Bangladesh. The tripling of voluntary exits this year suggests changing socio-political dynamics may play a role alongside targeted enforcement measures like “pushbacks.” However, allegations surrounding legality could create friction between central agencies and state governments.The drop in incoming migrants aligns with tighter border surveillance reinforced by directives prohibiting entry without valid documents-potentially signaling reduced infiltration risks but also generating humanitarian challenges for those stranded between borders. Long-term implications depend heavily on how both nations balance security protocol with human rights obligations amid evolving bilateral ties.

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