NEW DELHI: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has escalated its confrontation with the Trinamool Congress (TMC) regarding the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in West Bengal, urging the Election Commission (EC) to intervene and ensure the deportation of illegal immigrants from the state. A BJP delegation, led by West Bengal state president Samik Bhattacharya, met with the EC to voice concerns about the presence of alleged infiltrators on voter lists and to demand their removal from the country.

The BJP delegation emphasized the necessity of a systematic approach to address illegal infiltration, pressing the EC to issue clear directives for the "exfiltration or detention" of individuals who are not Indian citizens. The party believes that stronger enforcement would help to reduce fraudulent applications and prevent infiltrators from being included on electoral rolls.

The BJP has long asserted that illegal immigration from Bangladesh is a major issue in West Bengal and that these immigrants often obtain fraudulent documents through local networks. The party claims that many individuals have admitted to acquiring such documents in media reports.

The BJP has dismissed claims from opposition parties that the workload associated with the SIR is causing stress.

Recent reports suggest an increase in illegal Bangladeshi immigrants attempting to cross the border, with 94 individuals apprehended in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district following the announcement of the SIR.

Amidst the SIR exercise, confessions have surfaced from illegal Bangladeshi nationals residing in areas like Newtown, admitting their lack of valid documents for legal stay in India. These individuals expressed fear and panic, with some attempting to flee the area. One woman confessed to paying 10,000 rupees to cross the border three years ago and working as a sweeper, earning 15,000 per month.

The BJP has accused the TMC of using illegal immigrants for political gains, particularly during elections. Conversely, the TMC has placed the blame on the Border Security Force (BSF), alleging that they accept bribes to allow illegal immigrants from Bangladesh into West Bengal.

The political climate in West Bengal remains charged as the BJP intensifies its efforts to address the issue of illegal immigration and ensure the integrity of the electoral process. The Election Commission's response to these demands is awaited as stakeholders look for a resolution to this contentious issue.