India, May 24 -- The West Bengal government has directed all district administrations to establish "holding centres" for apprehended illegal immigrants, including Bangladeshi nationals and Rohingyas, who are awaiting deportation or repatriation.

In a letter issued by the state's Home and Hill Affairs Department, Government of West Bengal to district magistrates, officials have been instructed to take immediate steps to set up the facilities in accordance with guidelines issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs.

"It is requested to take initiative/appropriate action for setting up of Holding Centres in the district for apprehended foreigners as well as for released foreign prisoners awaiting deportation/repatriation in accordance with the ...