Odisha Police have detained 448 individuals suspected of being illegal migrants, primarily from Bangladesh and the Rohingya community. Of the total, 444 were picked up from Jharsuguda district in western Odisha, while four others were held in the port town of Paradip on Tuesday.
According to police sources, many of the detained individuals had been living in Jharsuguda for some time and were employed in local industries and mining sectors, mostly as masons and painters.
Inspector General of Police Himansu Kumar Lal said the detentions were based on suspicions of illegal entry into India. “We have taken them into custody on the suspicion that they are Bangladeshi nationals and Rohingyas who entered the state unlawfully,” he stated.
Responding to speculation that some of the detainees might be Indian citizens from West Bengal, Lal clarified that a verification process is currently underway. “Those who can prove Indian citizenship will be allowed to stay, while others will face legal proceedings,” he added.
Many of those detained reportedly lack essential identity documents such as Aadhaar cards or passports. Police said that if their Bangladeshi origin is confirmed, they could be deported in accordance with the law.
The large-scale operation in Jharsuguda was conducted by two special task force (STF) teams, following directives from the Ministry of Home Affairs. The detainees are currently being housed in a private college auditorium and an indoor stadium in the district.
In Paradip, the four individuals detained were also found without valid documentation, such as Aadhaar cards or banking records. “They will be deported following legal protocol,” said Smruti Ranjan Kar, Additional Superintendent of Police, Paradip.
Authorities are now probing whether an organised network facilitated the entry and settlement of the migrants. Police officials expressed concern over how such a large number of undocumented individuals were able to find employment and integrate into the local economy without detection.
