Odisha on High Alert for Potential Infiltration from Bangladesh Amid Political Unrest

Bhubaneswar: Odisha’s coastal and marine police have been put on high alert following intelligence reports of potential infiltration by Bangladeshi nationals, driven by political turmoil in the neighbouring country.

Director General of Police (DGP) Arun Kumar Sarangi issued the directive on Thursday, underlining the need for heightened vigilance across the state’s coastal regions.

Sarangi highlighted that all coastal districts and marine police stations have been instructed to prevent illegal immigrants from entering Odisha’s territory.

There are 18 police stations in the seven coastal districts, with nine marine police stations concentrated in Balasore, Bhadrak, and Kendrapara—districts that are particularly close to Bangladesh. These stations have received additional manpower to closely monitor the situation.

The DGP also confirmed that marine police have been ordered to intensify sea patrols up to five nautical miles to thwart any infiltration attempts.

In response to the potential threat, the Odisha government has already issued a high alert, directing all district superintendents of police, especially those in coastal areas, to secure entry points along the coastline.

Additionally, a 24/7 control room has been established at the office of the Additional Director General (ADG) of Coastal Security to coordinate these efforts.