Chhattisgarh has taken decisive steps to address two critical challenges—illegal immigration and Left-wing extremism—under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai and Home Minister Vijay Sharma. On December 9, Sharma announced at a public meeting in Bhilai that approximately 850 illegal Bangladeshi infiltrators have been deported from the state, marking a significant stride in safeguarding the region’s demographic integrity.
Sharma disclosed that 500 infiltrators were deported from Bastar and 350 from Kawardha, while 46 others from Kondagaon are currently in custody, awaiting deportation. He assured the public that authorities are acting swiftly on reports of illegal immigrants and emphasized the tireless efforts of the state police in identifying and detaining such individuals.
The issue of illegal Bangladeshi immigrants has been a contentious one in Chhattisgarh. In August 2024, the Sarv Adivasi Samaj, a tribal organisation, organized a statewide shutdown to protest against the unchecked influx of infiltrators. The group accused the immigrants of settling in villages, towns, and cities, potentially endangering the region’s cultural and demographic fabric. Shops and businesses remained closed during the protest, with only emergency services operational.
The tribal community demanded immediate action, blaming the inflow on political instability in Bangladesh. They alleged negligence on the part of the authorities in addressing the issue, which heightened tensions in several districts. Sharma’s recent actions appear to be a response to these long-standing demands.
In a parallel development, Chhattisgarh achieved a historic milestone in its decades-long battle against Naxalism. Bastar and Kondagaon districts were declared Maoist free by Bastar IG Sundar Raj P. This accomplishment, achieved through sustained development efforts and intensified security operations, signals a major breakthrough in the state’s fight against insurgency.
“The activities of maoists have significantly weakened due to our focused approach, paving the way for peace and progress in these regions,” IG Raj stated.
The declaration comes ahead of the closing ceremony of the Bastar Olympics on December 15, where Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai is expected to announce further measures to consolidate these gains. Union Home Minister Amit Shah is also scheduled to attend the event, highlighting the national importance of this achievement.
