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**Summary:**

A large-scale police verification drive in Gurugram, Haryana, targeting illegal Bangladeshi immigrants, has triggered widespread fear and an exodus of Bengali-speaking migrant workers from the city. While authorities state that detentions are based on intelligence and proper verification, residents report random detentions and harassment, leading to a severe shortage of domestic workers and sanitation staff. The drive has drawn criticism for its methods, with allegations of police brutality, extortion, and the creation of an environment of fear. Despite claims of due process, many migrants are leaving even with valid documents, fearing detention and mistreatment. The situation has sparked debate and accusations of human rights violations, with some comparing it to discriminatory practices in other states.

**News Article:**

**Gurugram Crackdown Sparks Mass Exodus of Migrant Workers Amidst Fear of Deportation**

**Gurugram, August 1, 2025** – A large-scale police verification drive targeting undocumented immigrants in Gurugram, Haryana, has triggered a mass exodus of Bengali-speaking migrant workers, plunging the city into a sanitation crisis and raising concerns about human rights violations.

The Gurugram police launched the operation in mid-July, converting community centers into temporary holding facilities to detain and question suspected illegal immigrants, primarily from Bangladesh. According to authorities, the drive is based on intelligence and aims to deport individuals residing illegally in the city, following procedures outlined by the Union Home Ministry.

However, residents of the city’s sprawling shantytowns paint a different picture. They report widespread fear, random detentions, and allegations of police harassment and extortion. Many are fleeing, even with valid documents proving their Indian citizenship, fearing prolonged detention and potential mistreatment.

“People are leaving even if they have valid documents. No one wants to get into trouble,” said Mohammad Ismail, a long term resident. “Even those working in the city for decades have hurriedly left.”

The sudden departure of migrant workers has created a severe shortage of domestic help, garbage collectors, and other essential service providers. Residents are struggling to manage household chores and waste disposal, leading to unsanitary conditions in many neighborhoods.

“About 80% of domestic workers and garbage collectors have disappeared,” stated Abhey Poonia, senior vice president of the Gurgaon Citizens’ Council, an umbrella organisation of over 80 resident welfare associations (RWAs). “Door-to-door garbage collection has stopped. Now, municipal vehicles collect trash from outside our societies every three to four days.”

The verification drive has drawn criticism from various quarters. Congress MLA Aftab Ahmed condemned the “inhuman treatment” of Bengali-speaking people, alleging that they were being beaten and treated like animals. The State’s Trade Union Council has also raised concerns about human rights violations, highlighting reports of undocumented detentions and extortion.

“We have also come to know that most of the people who come in plain clothes to pick up people arrive in vehicles without registered number plates. Are they police personnel or someone else? This is a matter of serious concern. As a result, a large number of poor labourers are migrating out of fear,” they stated in a press release.

While the police deny allegations of abuse, the atmosphere of fear persists, with many migrants preparing to leave Gurugram as soon as they receive their wages. The situation underscores the complex challenges of immigration and the potential impact of enforcement measures on vulnerable communities.

The Gurugram police could not be reached for further comment.

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