Concerns Grow Over Delayed Identification of Illegal Settlers in Jharsuguda

By Mamata Debta

Jharsuguda, May 24: As security measures tighten across the country following the Pahalgam attack, a fresh wave of concern has emerged in Jharsuguda over the delay in identifying illegal Bangladeshi settlers. While both the central and state governments have directed a crackdown on infiltrators, especially from Pakistan and Bangladesh, locals here are questioning why Jharsuguda district is yet to initiate the identification process.

Known as one of Odisha’s most economically vibrant districts, Jharsuguda attracts a constant influx of labourers and workers from various states due to its flourishing mining and industrial sectors. The presence of a major railway junction further makes it a convenient transit point, inadvertently creating opportunities for illegal entrants to blend in.

Despite repeated allegations about the presence of Bangladeshi nationals working in local industries and the construction sector, particularly in areas like Brajrajnagar, Belpahar, Bandhabhal, Lakhanpur, Kirmira, Laikera, Kolabira, and Jharsuguda town, the local administration has remained largely inactive, residents claim.

Concerns have intensified in the wake of past incidents. In a recent example, rioters involved in the Murshidabad unrest reportedly took refuge in Jharsuguda’s Bandhabhal area. It was only through a coordinated operation between the West Bengal Police and Jharsuguda Police that the culprits were tracked down and apprehended. The incident has amplified fears about outsiders using the district as a safe hideout for anti-social activities.

Given the history of violence against minorities in neighbouring Bangladesh and instances of infiltrators engaging in criminal activities within India, citizens and local intellectuals are urging authorities to prioritise Jharsuguda in the ongoing identification drive. They stress that a proactive approach is essential not only to maintain law and order but also to prevent potential threats in the future.

With the central government’s instructions already in place and identification exercises underway in other parts of Odisha — particularly in the coastal districts under STF surveillance — the people of Jharsuguda demand immediate action. Vigilance, coupled with systematic verification, could go a long way in safeguarding the district’s industrial peace and communal harmony.