Ghaziabad Police Operation Sparks Debate After ‘Citizenship Check’ Video Goes Viral

Ghaziabad.
Amid an intensified drive across Uttar Pradesh to identify and apprehend illegally residing Bangladeshi nationals, a recent incident involving the Ghaziabad Police has triggered widespread debate and criticism. A video from a police operation has gone viral on social media, raising serious questions about the methods being used to verify the citizenship of suspected illegal immigrants.

The incident dates back to December 23, when Kaushambi Police, along with personnel from the Rapid Action Force (RAF) and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), conducted a large-scale verification drive in the slum areas of Bhovapur and Bihari Market. The operation, aimed at identifying Bangladeshis and Rohingyas allegedly residing illegally in the area, was officially named “Operation Torch.”

During the operation, a video surfaced showing the Station House Officer (SHO) of the local police station, Ajay Sharma, placing a mobile phone on the back of a man and appearing to conduct what was described as a “citizenship check.” The visual quickly spread online, leading to sharp reactions from the public and drawing embarrassment for the police department.

The viral clip sparked a larger debate on whether such improvised techniques are credible or legally valid for determining nationality. Social media users questioned whether a mobile device could genuinely identify illegal immigrants, while others expressed concern over the seriousness and sensitivity of such operations.

Police officials, however, have maintained that the drive was part of a coordinated effort to ensure internal security and verify the credentials of suspected illegal residents. They emphasized that the operation involved document verification and intelligence-based inputs, though the viral video has overshadowed the broader objectives of the exercise.

The incident has once again highlighted the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies during verification drives, as well as the need for transparent, lawful, and scientifically sound procedures. Authorities are expected to review the matter and clarify the protocols being followed during such operations.