News Reporter
Stopped at Karma Dolma Rangpo Checkpost and pushed back to Kalimpong.
Gangtok, March 9: In a significant border security breach, two US nationals of Chinese origin were deported twice from Sikkim after illegally entering the state without the mandatory clearances. The Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) and Sikkim Police swiftly acted against the violation, underscoring the need for stricter security measures at entry points.
Denied Entry at Rangpo Checkpost
The two women, one aged 56 and the other identified as 31-year-old Tenzin Choeney, attempted to enter Sikkim on February 14 through the Karma Dolma Rangpo Checkpost. However, they failed to present the mandatory clearance from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), leading to their denial of entry.
As per Indian regulations, foreign nationals of Chinese origin fall under the Prior Reference Category, requiring them to obtain prior MHA approval before applying for a Restricted Area Permit (RAP). Since the two women lacked this approval, authorities at Rangpo Checkpost pushed them back, following which they proceeded to Kalimpong.
Illegal Re-Entry into Sikkim
Despite being denied entry, the duo managed to illegally return to Sikkim on February 20, this time avoiding Rangpo Checkpost entirely. They traveled to Rumtek, where they stayed with a relative—a teacher at Rumtek Gumpa.
During their stay, they were seen participating in the Tibetan Losar festival at Rumtek Monastery, raising concerns over how they managed to bypass security and enter the restricted area undetected.
Swift Action by FRRO and Sikkim Police
Upon learning about their illegal stay, FRRO Sikkim and Sikkim Police took immediate action. The two women were detained and questioned at Rangpo Police Station on March 9, before being deported once again through the Rangpo Checkpost.
This second deportation highlights the effectiveness of the authorities in enforcing entry regulations. However, the security lapse at Rangpo Checkpost that allowed their illegal re-entry has raised serious concerns about intelligence and border control measures.
Security Concerns in a Sensitive Border State
Sikkim, being a strategically sensitive state, requires strict monitoring of foreign nationals to prevent unauthorized entries. The incident has exposed weaknesses in border security, prompting calls for enhanced surveillance and stricter enforcement at checkpoints.
Authorities have also emphasized the responsibility of locals in reporting illegal foreign entries, especially when foreign nationals stay with relatives without proper documentation.
With growing concerns over border security, officials are expected to review and tighten immigration protocols to prevent similar incidents in the future.