Peace possible in Bengal only when cross-border infiltration ends: Amit Shah

Union Home Minister Amit Shah, during a recent event at the Petrapole land port on the India-Bangladesh border, emphasized that peace in West Bengal depends on ending cross-border infiltration from Bangladesh. He highlighted that stopping illegal immigration is crucial to ensuring stability in the region and claimed that a BJP-led government in West Bengal could achieve this goal if elected in 2026.

Speaking at the inauguration of a new passenger terminal and cargo gate at Petrapole, Shah criticized the ruling TMC government for failing to curb illegal immigration and addressing issues of corruption. “Infiltration from Bangladesh disturbs the peace and affects the safety of citizens in Bengal,” he said, urging the people of Bengal to support the BJP in the next assembly elections for a solution to these pressing concerns.

He further highlighted that the lack of legal avenues for border movement often leads to illegal routes being exploited, causing increased instability. “When legal border movements are limited, people resort to unlawful ways, which impact the peace and security of the country,” Shah explained. He underscored the importance of land ports in managing safe and organized cross-border movements, which he believed would reduce unlawful entry and enhance peaceful relations.

Shah asserted that a change in leadership is necessary to address infiltration issues directly, assuring that the BJP would implement stringent measures to stop illegal immigration and establish greater peace in the state. He appealed to Bengal’s residents, saying, “I urge the people of Bengal to bring in change in 2026, and we will stop infiltration, and peace will come.”

Additionally, Shah noted the role of land ports like Petrapole in strengthening diplomatic ties and trade relations between India and Bangladesh, saying, “Land ports are vital for connectivity and relations between the two countries and enhancing mutual trade, which benefits both nations’ economies.”