Bangladeshi Infiltration and Demographic Shift in Jharkhand’s Tribal Belt
Santhal Pargana: A Region Under Threat
The Santhal Pargana region, encompassing Pakur, Sahibganj, Godda, Jamtara, Dumka, and Deoghar, is experiencing a significant demographic transformation due to the continuous influx of illegal Bangladeshi immigrants. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has repeatedly raised concerns about this issue in the Jharkhand Legislative Assembly, demanding the implementation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) to identify and deport illegal settlers.
Historically, the Santhal tribe settled in the Rajmahal Hills during the 18th century and played a pivotal role in resisting British rule, most notably in the 1855 Santhal Rebellion, which preceded the 1857 Revolt. The Santhals have long upheld the principle of not selling their land to non-tribals. However, the demographic influx now poses a severe threat to their cultural identity and traditional land ownership.
Special Branch Report Confirms Infiltration
A classified letter from the Special Branch of the Jharkhand government, accessed by CNN-News18, has confirmed large-scale illegal entry of Bangladeshi nationals into Santhal Pargana and other parts of Jharkhand.
The report outlines a systematic process: illegal immigrants are first sheltered in local madrasas, then registered as voters, and later integrated into society. A commonly observed strategy involves their marriage to tribal women, which provides them indirect ownership of tribal land through in-laws.
Ground Investigation: The Reality on the Ground
An on-ground investigation by CNN-News18 across the Santhal Pargana region uncovered unsettling realities. In Godda, groups of Bengali-speaking truck drivers were found gathering at roadside eateries late at night. The eatery’s owner confirmed that they were Bangladeshis residing in Pakur district and were regular customers, though he was unaware of how they had obtained driving licenses.
When questioned about the Special Branch report, Pakur Superintendent of Police Hrudeep P. Janardhanan acknowledged the problem. He stated, “We received a letter regarding the influx of Bangladeshis. This issue has resurfaced repeatedly. While we face certain limitations, we are working with the Intelligence Bureau (IB) and the Foreigners Registration Office (FRRO) to address it.”
Religious Institutions and Changing Demographics
Pakur, which shares a border with West Bengal’s Murshidabad district, has witnessed a rapid increase in the number of madrasas and mosques across both urban and rural areas. An RTI query revealed that Sahibganj alone has 43 state-funded madrasas.
Census data further highlights the shifting demographics:
Between 2001 and 2011, Jharkhand’s overall Muslim population grew by 14%, nearly matching the 14.2% growth of the Santhal population.
In Pakur, the Muslim population surged by 42%, while the Santhal population increased by only 19.51%.
In Sahibganj, the Muslim population rose by 37%, whereas the Santhal population grew by just 10.8%.
Migration and Infiltration Routes
The porous land and riverine borders between India and Bangladesh facilitate illegal infiltration. Once inside India, infiltrators disperse across states using multiple routes:
Via Road: Many enter Jharkhand through Pakur by crossing from Murshidabad in West Bengal.
Via Rail: Upon reaching Pakur or Sahibganj, they board trains to different parts of Jharkhand.
Via River: Some infiltrators cross the Ganga from Sahibganj by boat to reach Katihar in Bihar.
Political Reactions and NRC Demands
The issue has triggered a major political debate. BJP leaders have accused the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) and the Congress-led state government of ignoring the problem.
BJP MP Nishikant Dubey alleged:
“Bangladeshi infiltrators are grabbing land, marrying tribal women, and converting them. This has led to a decline in the tribal population and a rise in the Muslim population.”
“Since the 1990s, a visible demographic shift has taken place. In Udhwa block alone, eight new panchayats have been created, all with a Muslim majority.”
He further demanded an NRC based on the 1951 Census and 1952 voter list to identify illegal immigrants.
On the other hand, JMM leaders have dismissed these claims, asserting that the BJP is using the issue for political mileage. However, BJP leaders argue that while border fencing is effective, river crossings remain a major challenge. They emphasize the need for penalizing locals who shelter illegal immigrants and reiterate their call for an NRC in the region.
Tribal Concerns Over Identity and Land Rights
Santhal activist Neeraj Hembrom expressed grave concerns over illegal land acquisition through fraudulent documentation. He pointed out, “Most illegal immigrants lack proof of residence dating back 30-40 years. Yet, they possess voter IDs and Aadhaar cards.”
He highlighted the drastic demographic transformation in the Rajmahal constituency:
In 2008, the Bangladeshi Muslim population was 19%; today, it stands at nearly 40%.
Meanwhile, the tribal population has dropped from 61% to 40%.
He attributed this change to high fertility rates among Bangladeshi Muslims and continued infiltration from Bangladesh, warning that population control measures disproportionately affect tribals, further accelerating the demographic shift.
Legal Action: PIL in Ranchi High Court
Activist Danyaal Danish has filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the Ranchi High Court, urging the state to take action against illegal infiltration and its impact on Jharkhand’s tribal demography. The petition also seeks an inquiry into the illegal construction of madrasas and other religious institutions.
The court has admitted the PIL and directed the state government to submit a report .
An Urgent Need for Action
The unchecked influx of Bangladeshi nationals into Jharkhand’s Santhal Pargana region is rapidly altering the demographic landscape, threatening the identity, culture, and land rights of indigenous tribal communities.
While political parties continue their blame game, the core issues—illegal land encroachment, forced demographic change, and the proliferation of religious institutions—remain largely unaddressed.
With the Ranchi High Court’s intervention and increasing public outcry, the demand for Stronger border security,Implementation of the NRC, andStricter action against those facilitating illegal migration. . The future of Jharkhand’s tribal communities hinges on decisive governance and proactive measures to prevent irreversible demographic transformation.
The issue of illegal immigration from Bangladesh into India the primary focus has historically been on the eastern border states, concerns have arisen regarding the spread of this issue to other regions of India.
Traditional Focus (West Bengal, Assam, Tripura, Meghalaya):
The primary areas of concern have traditionally been the states bordering Bangladesh, due to the porous nature of the border.
Bangladeshi Infiltration in Various Indian States:
Uttarakhand:
Concerns have been raised regarding the presence of Bangladeshi migrants in areas like Dehradun and Haridwar, often working in informal sectors. The relative proximity to Delhi and other major cities acts as a pull factor.
Maharashtra:
Major cities like Mumbai and Pune have seen an influx of migrants from various parts of India, including those suspected to be illegal Bangladeshi immigrants, seeking employment opportunities.
Kerala:
The state’s high literacy rate and relatively better economic conditions have attracted migrant workers from various parts of India and neighboring countries. Concerns exist about the identification and verification of these migrants.
Bihar and Jharkhand:
These states share a border with West Bengal, which acts as a transit point. This geographical proximity, and the economic conditions of these states, makes it easier for the migrants to blend in.
Tamil Nadu:
Chennai and other industrial areas in Tamil Nadu are also attracting migrant workers, and there are concerns about the possible presence of illegal immigrants within these groups.
Odisha:
Coastal districts of Odisha have become vulnerable due to sea route infiltration. Furthermore, Major cities like Bhubaneshwar and Cuttack are having migrant workers from all over india, and from neighboring countries.
Factors Contributing to Spread:
- Economic opportunities: Migrants seek better livelihood options in urban centers.
- Network of agents: Organized networks facilitate illegal entry and provide support.
- Document fabrication: The creation of false documents to establish Indian citizenship.
- Lack of strict verification: Inconsistent or inadequate verification processes for migrant workers.
- Counter Measures to Counter Demographic Invasion In Hinterland.
- Improving Identification and Verification:
- Implementation of a robust national citizenship register.
- Mandatory verification of migrant workers, especially in urban areas.
- Use of biometric data for identification.
- Aadhaar card verification improvement.
Addressing Document Fraud:
Stricter enforcement of laws against document forgery.
Centralized database for document verification.
Regular audits of document issuance processes.
Combating Organized Networks:
Intelligence gathering and targeted operations against human trafficking networks.
International cooperation to address cross-border crime.
Addressing Socio-Economic Factors:
Improving economic opportunities in border areas to reduce the incentive for migration.
Addressing the root causes of migration in Bangladesh.
Legal and Administrative Measures:
Streamlining the process for identifying and deporting illegal immigrants.
Strengthening laws against harboring illegal immigrants.
Better cooperation between central and state governments.
Creating a national level immigration law.
Public Awareness:
Educating the public about the dangers of illegal immigration.
Promoting responsible reporting of suspected illegal activities.
Coordination with Local Administration:
Improving the coordination between BSF and local civil administrations.
Strengthening the local intelligence.
Increase the accountability of local officials.
It’s crucial to address this issue with a comprehensive and coordinated approach, involving all levels of government and society.
What Else Can Be Done
Illegal immigration poses a severe internal security threat, as many migrants have links to jihadist elements. Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and Bangladesh’s Directorate General of Forces Intelligence (DGFI) exploit these migrants for disruptive activities.
International Legal Framework
Several international protocols address illegal migration and related threats:
UN Protocol Against Smuggling of Migrants
UN Protocol on the Prevention of Illicit Manufacturing and Trafficking of Firearms: Pakistan and China strongly oppose applying this to state-to-state transactions.
International Regulations on Madrassa Establishments: There is a need for global oversight on the funding and curriculum of madrassas to prevent radicalization.
Legal and Policy Measures
Repealing the Illegal Migration Determination Tribunal (IMDT) Act, 1983
Under the current law, two individuals within a 3 km radius must file a complaint and pay Rs. 25 to initiate the detection process.
Complainants must reside in the same police station jurisdiction.
Police lack the authority to detain, arrest, or search suspected illegal migrants.
The burden of proof lies on the complainant and the police, making enforcement highly ineffective.
Proposed Amendments
The Illegal Migrants Act should be revised to streamline the identification process.
Once identified by two individuals, the suspect must report to the nearest police station to prove their bona fides.
Police must be granted additional powers for detainment and investigation.
The base year for detection should be 1971, as per the Indira-Mujib Pact of 1972.
Remedial Measures to Counter Demographic Invasion
Strengthening Border Policing: Enhancing surveillance, fencing, and border control measures.
National Identity Card Implementation: Ensuring biometric identification to track illegal immigrants.
Encouraging Research on Immigration Trends: Data-driven approaches to manage illegal migration.
Evaluation of Inner Line Permit System: Examining its applicability to sensitive border states.
Introduction of Temporary Work Permits: Providing controlled employment opportunities while restricting citizenship rights.
Political and Administrative Measures
White Paper on Illegal Immigration: A committee under the Union Home Ministry should document and analyze migration patterns.
Sensitization of Local Administration: Officials in border states must be trained on the impact of unchecked immigration.
Strict Action Against Vote Bank Politics: Public awareness campaigns and vigilant media coverage are essential to curb political manipulation of migrants.
Monitoring Voter Lists: A special body under the Election Commission should scrutinize voter list expansions in Assam and West Bengal.
Granting ‘Denizen’ Status: Migrants who have settled in Assam can be granted limited rights, including work permits and healthcare, without voting privileges.
Identification and Documentation
Multipurpose Photo ID Cards: Mandatory identification for all residents.
Effective Registration of Births and Deaths: Preventing fraudulent citizenship claims.
Denial of Voting Rights to Illegal Migrants and Their Descendants.
Ground Survey Teams: Conducting on-the-ground identification of illegal migrants.
Stateless Citizen Status: Implementing a policy similar to Germany’s treatment of Turkish migrants.
Security Measures
Enhanced Professionalism in the BSF: Training and better incentives to prevent corruption.
Completion of Border Fencing: Special attention to riverine areas.
Floodlighting and Road Development: Enabling better patrolling.
Advanced Surveillance Technology: Integrating modern surveillance tools.
Ongoing Dialogue with Bangladesh: Ensuring cooperation on insurgent activities.
Monitoring Local Politician-Insurgent Links: A third-party watchdog to oversee political affiliations.
Creation of Security Belts Along the Border: Establishing restricted zones to prevent infiltration.
Relocation of Border Outposts and Police Stations.
Riverine Border Patrols
Floating Border Outposts (BOPs)
Helicopter Surveillance
Mandatory Registration of Private Boats
Population Control Measures
Formation of Village Defense Committees
Implementation of Inner Line Permits
Periodic and Special Verifications
Encouraging Citizens to Report Illegal Settlements
Identification and Tracking of Smugglers
Surveillance on Officials and Politicians
Commanders to Monitor Their Subordinates’ Activities
Encouraging Reporting of Suspicious Contacts
Discreet Oversight on Suspected Personnel
Periodic Background Checks for Officials in Border Areas
Monitoring Unusual Financial Activities
Nationwide Measures
Public Awareness Campaigns: Unifying citizens against illegal immigration.
Boycotting Political Parties Practicing Vote Bank Politics.
Educational Initiatives: Engaging intellectuals, media, and common citizens.
Solidarity Messages to the Northeast: Reinforcing national unity.
Implementation of UN Protocols Against Migrant Smuggling.
International Oversight on Madrassa Establishments.
