Even as the industry shut and a majority of the workforce returned to their respective home States during the COVID-19 lockdown, the Bangladeshi immigrants stayed on. Using the Aadhaar card, the Bangladeshi immigrants got other documents which certify proof of identity or address which is required for opening a bank account, getting rental accommodation and applying for jobs. The case was similar to Sri Lankan Tamil refugees who sailed to Tamil Nadu shores in boats years ago and settled in different districts. Some of them were also accused of acting as agents who brought in more Bangladeshi immigrants and got them jobs in the hosiery industry. Police were also investigating a specific input that about 50 Bangladeshi immigrants were settled on the outskirts of Chennai city in Chengalpattu district, police sources said.

Source: The Hindu July 13, 2021 17:14 UTC