The Maharashtra judiciary has once again taken a firm stand on illegal immigration. A sessions court in Thane has convicted a Bangladeshi couple for unlawfully entering and staying in India without valid documents. The court also ordered their deportation, reinforcing strict enforcement of the Foreigners Act and immigration laws.
📌 What Is the Case About?
The case revolves around a Bangladeshi couple who were found residing in Maharashtra without passports, visas, or any legal permission to stay in India. Following investigation and trial, the court concluded that the couple had violated Indian immigration laws and were staying illegally in the country.
👤 Who Are the Accused?
The convicted individuals were identified as Riyaz Almin Mulla (24) and his wife Soniya alias Sathi Riyaj Mulla (22). Both were living in the Uttar Shivgaon area and were arrested by the Shil-Diaghar police after authorities received a tip-off regarding foreign nationals staying under suspicious circumstances.
🚔 How Were They Caught?
Based on the information received, police conducted a checkpoint operation and intercepted the couple while they were travelling in an autorickshaw. During questioning, the couple failed to clearly explain their residence and could not provide valid identity or stay-related documents, leading to their detention.
📄 No Legal Documents Found
During verification, the couple was unable to produce passports, visas, or any official papers permitting them to stay in India. This lack of documentation became a key factor in the prosecution’s case and strengthened the charge of illegal stay.
🗣️ Admission During Interrogation
During interrogation, the accused admitted that they were Bangladeshi nationals who had entered India illegally in search of work and livelihood opportunities. The court noted that under Indian law, the burden of proving lawful citizenship or residency lies with the accused, which they failed to establish.
⚖️ Court Ruling & Legal Provisions
While some charges were dropped due to technical and procedural reasons, the court convicted the couple under Section 14 of the Foreigners Act, 1946, which deals with illegal entry and unlawful stay in India. The court held that the evidence on record was sufficient to prove the offence.
✈️ Sentence & Deportation Order
Considering the time already spent in custody, the court sentenced the couple to one year and 10 days of simple imprisonment, imposed a ₹1,000 fine each, and ordered authorities to initiate deportation proceedings to send them back to Bangladesh after completing legal formalities.
🏁 Final Word
This case highlights the government and judiciary’s strict approach towards illegal immigration and reinforces the importance of valid documentation for foreign nationals staying in India. Authorities have reiterated that such violations will continue to be dealt with firmly under existing laws.
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🧑⚖️ Maharashtra Court Convicts Bangladeshi Couple for Illegal Stay, Orders Deportation 🇮🇳✈️