'What If An Infiltrator Enters': SC Refuses To Put Stay On Detention Of Bengali Migrant Workers

Last Updated:August 14, 2025, 12:21 IST

The apex court declined an interim stay on the detention of Muslim Bengali migrant workers, citing concerns about the potential consequences of not monitoring illegal immigration.

The matter came up before the SC bench of CJI BR Gavai and Justices K Vinod Chandran and Joymalya Bagchi. (Image: PTI/File)

The Supreme Court on Thursday refused to put an interim stay on the detention and deportation of Muslim Bengali migrant workers, highlighting concerns over unchecked illegal entry of migrants and their assimilation in Indian society, while stressing a mechanism to identify bonafide workers.

In a stern message, Justice Surya Kant said, “Suppose someone has come illegally in India, how to deal with that situation? If they don’t detain, he will disappear."

“Some mechanism required for bonafide workers…either state of origin can issue some kind of card…and local police accept it as prima facie proof of his having come for livelihood," Justice Kant added.

The hearing came amid concerns that Bengali-speaking individuals were detained in the national capital on suspicion of being Bangladeshi citizens without verifying their identities. The West Bengal government has slammed the BJP-led Centre for targeting Bengalis, while Kolkata Police introduced a helpline for migrant workers from the state facing harassment and identity checks elsewhere.

“States where these migrant workers are working have the right to inquire from their state of origin about their bonafide but the problem is in the interregnum. If we pass any interim orders, then it will have consequences, especially those who have illegally come from across the border and need to be deported under the law," the bench comprising Justices Kant and Joymalya Bagchi said.

Aveek Banerjee

Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international...Read More

Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in international...

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August 14, 2025, 12:17 IST

News india 'What If An Infiltrator Enters': SC Refuses To Put Stay On Detention Of Bengali Migrant Workers

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