Kendrapara: The district administration has launched a drive to keep a tab on infiltration of suspected Bangladeshis.

Some 3,987 Bangladeshi infiltrators are living in Odisha. The highest number of 1,649 Bangladeshi infiltrators are staying in the coastal Kendrapara district followed by 1,112 in Paradip and 1226 in Jagatsinghpur. Of the 3,987 infiltrators, 1,551 Bangladeshis living in Kendrapara district had been served "quit India" deportation notice in 2005. However, the deportation move has been kept on hold following intervention by the then Union government.

"The administration wants to check influx of illegal immigrants. We have been receiving unconfirmed reports of sea-route infiltration by suspected Bangladeshis. We are taking the issue seriously. We have formed committees - comprising revenue, police and forest officials - to intensify vigil on infiltration," said Kedrapara collector Regu G.

The committees have been formed in infiltration-affected Mahakalpada and Rajnagar tehsils.

Private sector employers, particularly those in marine fishing sectors, have been asked to engage people in work only after thoroughly cross-checking their nationality and antecedents. They have been warned of facing stringent legal action if they are found engaging illegal immigrants or giving them shelter. The crewmembers of sea-going fishermen have a pivotal role to play in checking infiltration.

"The newly-formed committees will shortly launch drive to sensitise residents in localities that are most vulnerable to illegal immigrants. People have been advised to swiftly inform the police if anybody is found staying in their localities with suspicious antecedents. Timely feedback disseminated by local residents regarding suspected intruders will go a long way in curbing infiltration. The crewmembers of sea-going fishermen also play a pivotal role to play in checking infiltration. The marine police will sensitise them," the district collector said.