Nabarangpur, Nabarangpur district has reportedly turned into a haven for infiltrators, with administrative inaction creating a safe environment for them. Some infiltrators have assumed the role of traders and set up roadside businesses in various areas, thereby affecting the livelihoods of local businessmen. Others have taken up roles as hawkers and tailors, offering services like scrap dealing and item repairs.
A rising number of infiltrators are also seen begging with children in both urban and rural areas. The alarming growth in their numbers has led to widespread concern. Allegations are being raised that some of these unidentified hawkers are involved in thefts during the night. There are also claims that some are engaged in illegal drug trade.
According to official sources, around 4,755 Bangladeshi refugee families reside in the district. Despite repeated demands to identify and take action against these infiltrators, the administration has failed to take any concrete steps. It has also come to light that some infiltrators have forcibly occupied government lands.
Administrative Inaction Prevails
In particular, 2,653 families are reported in the Raighar Tehsil, 1,631 in Umerkote, and 471 in Jharigaon. However, it is believed that infiltrators are spread beyond these three areas, covering all 10 blocks and 2 municipalities of the district.
Recently, under the leadership of Kahnu Dash, president of the Nabarangpur District Traders’ Association, a delegation met the district collector to raise this issue. Despite that, the administration has not taken any serious measures.
While these infiltrators continue to reside permanently, no strict action or regulation is in place against them. The concern is that such individuals, who stay off the administration’s radar, might commit crimes and easily disappear, making it extremely difficult for authorities to track or apprehend them due to the lack of identity data.
The public is now left wondering: When will the administration wake up, and when will the district be freed from the grip of infiltrators?