Bhubaneswar: Odisha has heightened security measures across its border and coastal regions amid concerns that illegal Bangladeshi immigrants facing intensified scrutiny in West Bengal could attempt to enter the state through land and sea routes. The move comes as authorities across India continue efforts to identify and deport undocumented foreign nationals residing illegally in the country.
State security agencies, district administrations and law enforcement units have been directed to remain vigilant and strengthen surveillance in sensitive areas. Intelligence inputs regarding the possible movement of suspected infiltrators towards Odisha have prompted authorities to tighten monitoring mechanisms and enhance security arrangements.
Officials believe that increased enforcement action in neighbouring West Bengal could trigger attempts by some undocumented immigrants to relocate to Odisha through porous border points or coastal routes.
Border districts and coastal areas under close watch
Odisha Police and security agencies have identified several districts as particularly vulnerable due to their geographical location and connectivity with neighbouring states.
Border districts such as Balasore and Mayurbhanj are being closely monitored because of their proximity to West Bengal. Meanwhile, coastal areas in Kendrapara district have emerged as a major focus of security operations owing to concerns that infiltrators could attempt to enter the state through maritime routes.
Authorities fear that weak coastal surveillance points and isolated entry channels could be exploited by individuals seeking to avoid detection. As a result, security personnel have intensified checks at transportation hubs, railway stations, bus terminals, rented accommodations and other locations considered vulnerable to illegal movement.
Sources within the administration said district authorities have been instructed to maintain strict vigilance and immediately report any suspicious activities.
Coastal security strengthened in Kendrapara
Among the districts under heightened alert, Kendrapara has emerged as a key area of concern due to its extensive coastline and proximity to vulnerable sea routes.
Acting on directions from senior police officials, marine police stations in the district have significantly strengthened surveillance operations. Security measures now include regular drone monitoring, expanded sea patrols and intensified night-time operations along the coast.
Authorities are particularly focusing on the coastal regions of Mahakalpada and Rajnagar, which have been identified as sensitive areas requiring additional vigilance. Police teams are conducting regular patrols between 30 and 50 nautical miles into the sea to monitor suspicious maritime activities and prevent any unauthorized entry into Odisha.
Sea patrolling operations are being carried out by all Marine Police Stations of Kendrapara district to strengthen coastal security, monitor maritime activities, and ensure safety of fishermen and coastal communities.
Kendrapara Police remains vigilant and committed towards… pic.twitter.com/3MGzj16h0c
— Kendrapada Police (Odisha) (@spkendrapara) May 26, 2026
A senior police official said all intelligence inputs are being carefully assessed and acted upon promptly.
“We are keeping a close watch on every intelligence input. Night patrols are being conducted regularly along vulnerable coastal stretches. Individuals entering through sea routes are being asked to produce valid identification documents, including fishing cards, Aadhaar cards and other credentials. Those unable to furnish valid identification are being subjected to further verification,” the official said.
Fishing activities also under monitoring
The Fisheries Department is working closely with security agencies as part of the enhanced surveillance exercise.
According to official data, nearly 392 registered fishing boats operate in the region. Authorities have instructed marine police personnel to monitor fishing activities and vessel movements closely to prevent any misuse of maritime routes.
Officials stated that information gathered through surveillance operations is being shared among intelligence agencies, police units and senior administrative officers to ensure a coordinated response. Security agencies maintain that these measures are precautionary in nature and aimed at strengthening coastal security infrastructure.
DGP orders tight vigil along land and water routes
Odisha Director General of Police (DGP) Yogesh Bahadur Khurania has confirmed that the state police force is maintaining strict vigilance over both land and coastal routes amid concerns over possible infiltration attempts.
According to the DGP, Coastal Security Police and Railway Police units have been placed on high alert and instructed to closely monitor movements across transport networks and vulnerable entry points. “The police are keeping a close watch on both land and water routes. Coastal Security Police and Railway Police personnel have been directed to remain vigilant and take necessary action whenever required,” Khurania said.
He added that law enforcement agencies are taking all possible measures to safeguard the state’s borders and maintain internal security. Officials have also intensified monitoring at railway stations, bus terminals and other major transportation centres where movement of undocumented individuals could potentially go unnoticed.
Odisha govt vows strict action against infiltrators: Identification and deportation drive continues
The Odisha government has reiterated its commitment to identifying and taking action against individuals residing illegally in the state. Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan recently stated that the administration has already initiated comprehensive verification drives and that strict action against illegal infiltrators will continue in the coming months.
According to the Minister, the process of identifying undocumented foreign nationals began last year under the direction of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi. Verification exercises conducted during the period reportedly led to the identification and deportation of several individuals residing in Odisha without valid documents.
“Odisha government is fully alert on this issue. We started the identification process last year itself. Acting on the Chief Minister’s directive, the Home Department has prioritised the matter. Several illegal Bangladeshi nationals have already been deported and the exercise will continue in the future,” Harichandan said.
The minister emphasized that the state government would not compromise on security-related matters and would ensure strict enforcement of immigration and residency laws.
Intelligence inputs lead to preventive measures
Security officials revealed that recent intelligence inputs have played a significant role in prompting the enhanced security arrangements across Odisha.
Sources indicated that authorities are tracking reports suggesting that undocumented immigrants facing enforcement action elsewhere may seek alternative locations to reside. Such assessments have led to increased surveillance in vulnerable districts and along strategic transit corridors.
Officials stressed that preventive measures are intended to detect and deter any potential illegal entry attempts before they occur. The government has also instructed local administrations to coordinate closely with law enforcement agencies and report any unusual population movements or suspicious activities.
Opposition BJD party describes issue as a “minor concern”
While the government has emphasized the need for heightened vigilance, the Opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has questioned the scale and seriousness of the issue. BJD leaders have argued that the state government is exaggerating isolated incidents and unnecessarily projecting them as a major security challenge.
According to the opposition party, the number of alleged Bangladeshi infiltrators identified in Odisha remains negligible compared to the state’s population of over 45 million people. Party leaders have further contended that neighbouring West Bengal reportedly hosts a much larger migrant population, whereas Odisha has recorded only a limited number of such cases.
The BJD has accused the government of attempting to divert public attention from other pressing issues by focusing excessively on infiltration concerns. “This is a relatively small issue and should not be blown out of proportion. The government is creating unnecessary controversy over isolated cases”, opposition leaders said.
