In a major decision to tackle illegal immigration, the Jammu and Kashmir administration has formed a seven-member committee to identify and deport foreign nationals who have been overstaying in the region for the past 13 years. The decision, spearheaded by the Principal Secretary to the Government, Home Department, Chandraker Bharti, aims to streamline the process of deporting these individuals.

The committee, chaired by the Administrative Secretary of the Home Department, includes the Foreigners Regional Registration Officer (FRRO) of Punjab, representatives from the Criminal Investigation Department (Special Branch) of both Jammu and Srinagar headquarters, all district SSPs and SPs (Foreigners Registration), and the state coordinator of the National Informatics Centre (NIC).

Their primary responsibilities will involve collecting biographic and biometric details of illegal migrants and maintaining a comprehensive digital record. The committee has to prepare monthly reports and submit them to the Union Home Ministry by the fifth day of each month. Additionally, they will coordinate and oversee the efforts related to tracing and deporting foreign nationals residing illegally in Jammu and Kashmir.

The Home Department has tasked the panel with monitoring the progress of these efforts and reporting regularly. They will also be responsible for disseminating information on ongoing court cases related to illegal immigration and updating the status of these cases for relevant stakeholders.

To ensure the efficient collection and management of data, a nodal officer will be appointed. This officer will oversee the compilation of progress reports and the maintenance of an up-to-date digital record of those illegally staying in Jammu and Kashmir.

This decision reflects the administration's commitment to addressing the issue of illegal immigration and ensuring the proper implementation of deportation processes.

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