Bengaluru: Karnataka has deported 427 foreign nationals so far in 2026 as part of intensified enforcement against illegal immigration and related crimes, Home Minister Dr G Parameshwara said on Wednesday.
Addressing reporters, the minister stated that the state has significantly strengthened its monitoring and deportation mechanisms over the past three years, leading to a steady increase in such actions.
Majority of deportees were Bangladeshi nationals
According to official data, out of the 427 individuals deported this year, 286 were identified as Bangladeshi nationals. Authorities have increasingly relied on faster repatriation methods, including deportation by air, instead of traditional land routes.
The move is part of efforts to streamline the deportation process and reduce delays in handling cases involving foreign nationals staying illegally or involved in criminal activities.
Deportations rise over three years
The state has witnessed a consistent rise in deportation numbers over recent years. In 2025, Karnataka tracked and deported 401 foreign nationals, while in 2024, the figure stood at 339.
Officials attribute this increase to improved coordination between law enforcement agencies and stricter surveillance mechanisms aimed at identifying illegal residents.
Over half the cases linked to NDPS offences
A significant proportion of deportation cases more than 50 per cent were linked to offences under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act.
Authorities have been focusing on tackling drug-related crimes involving foreign nationals, which has emerged as a major area of concern in urban centres, including Bengaluru.
Shift in deportation policy
The Home Minister highlighted a key policy shift in handling such cases. Earlier, foreign nationals booked in criminal cases were allowed to remain in India until the completion of legal proceedings.
However, the government has now adopted a more proactive approach. In certain cases, individuals are being deported soon after apprehension, in coordination with their respective embassies, without waiting for prolonged legal processes.
This change is aimed at reducing the burden on the legal system while ensuring quicker resolution of such cases.
Focus on faster repatriation
Officials said the new strategy emphasises speed and efficiency. By working closely with foreign embassies and using air routes for deportation, authorities have been able to expedite repatriation.
The move is also intended to deter illegal immigration and prevent repeat offences, particularly in cases involving organised criminal activities.
Law enforcement strengthened
The Karnataka government has ramped up surveillance and intelligence gathering to track foreign nationals overstaying visas or engaging in unlawful activities.
Police units have been instructed to maintain stricter verification processes and ensure timely action against violators.
Conclusion
The deportation of 427 foreign nationals in 2026 reflects Karnataka’s intensified efforts to address illegal immigration and related crimes. With a shift towards faster repatriation and stricter enforcement, the state aims to strengthen law and order while ensuring efficient handling of such cases.