Bangladeshis Pay ₹10,000-₹20,000 to Touts for Illegal Entry into India: Meghalaya Authorities Reveal

Authorities in Meghalaya have uncovered a network of touts charging Bangladeshi nationals between ₹10,000 and ₹20,000 for illegal entry into India. The revelation has sparked calls for heightened border security and increased regional cooperation to combat human trafficking.

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The Meghalaya State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (MSCPCR) reported that these touts are exploiting vulnerable individuals seeking better economic opportunities. The commission highlighted the need for coordinated efforts to dismantle these trafficking networks and protect migrants from exploitation.

MSCPCR Chairperson, Meena Kharkongor, stated, “We have identified several cases where Bangladeshi nationals have paid hefty sums to enter India illegally. These touts are taking advantage of their desperation and lack of options.”

The modus operandi involves guiding migrants through porous border areas and bypassing official checkpoints. Once across the border, these individuals often face further exploitation, including forced labour and inadequate living conditions.

The issue came to light after a series of arrests and investigations revealed the extent of the illegal crossings. Law enforcement agencies in Meghalaya are now working closely with border security forces to tighten surveillance and crack down on these illegal operations.

Residents in border areas have expressed concerns about the increasing number of illegal migrants. Local community leader, Ram Singh, remarked, “We have seen a rise in the number of strangers in our village. It’s worrying because we don’t know their intentions or background.”

The Indian government has also been alerted to the situation. A senior official from the Ministry of Home Affairs commented, “We are aware of the reports from Meghalaya and are taking necessary steps to enhance border security. We are also in touch with Bangladeshi authorities to address this issue through diplomatic channels.”