Democracy thrives when resources and opportunities are allocated equitably. Illegal immigration disrupts this balance.
India’s democratic framework and its richly pluralistic society face an existential challenge from illegal immigration. A nation built on the principles of equality, justice, and the rule of law, India finds itself grappling with the strain of unauthorized migration. Illegal immigration undermines the very foundations of democracy, distorts resource distribution, poses a security challenge, and exacerbates cultural and communal tensions. The issue demands immediate attention, especially in light of India’s legislative efforts, such as the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and the mounting crises in neighbouring countries.
There have been attempts by some to say that the greatest Indian thinker of modern India, Babasaheb Bharat Ratna Dr B.R. Ambedkar was only critical of Hinduism and its caste system. But they are selective in quoting him; he was as critical of Islam and Christianity. One needs to read all his writings, especially “Pakistan or Partition”. This book has been ignored by the woke left liberal ecosystem. He was for complete transfer of populations during Partition and stated “Islam can never allow a true Muslim to adopt India as his motherland and regard a Hindu as his kith and kin”. He wrote this in 1945.
Re-reading Ambedkar holistically and not conveniently as the left woke liberal ecosystem does, is the need of the hour for constructing a nationalist inclusive narrative. His critique of Hinduism is valid, but then his critique of Islam has to stand to objective scrutiny and is equally valid. When he converted along with Dalits into Buddhism, he had this to say, “Conversion to Islam or Christianity will denationalise the Depressed classes.” He warned. “If they go to Islam the number of Muslims will be doubled and the danger of Muslim domination becomes real.” He was very critical, rather scornful of Muslim politics. Hence, this complete holistic reading of his detailed objective work on Islam in India is very important to understand what demographic changes through illegal immigration can bring about.
DEMOCRACY AND FAIR GOVERNANCE
Democracy thrives when resources and opportunities are allocated equitably. Illegal immigration disrupts this balance, particularly in states bordering porous frontiers like West Bengal, Assam, and Tripura. Public services, already stretched thin, are further burdened by undocumented migrants. Healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and welfare programs meant for citizens find themselves catering to populations beyond their mandate. This dilution of resources not only affects marginalized Indian citizens but also fuels local resentment, fostering social discord.
The labour market presents another layer of complexity. Illegal immigrants often accept lower wages, dominating informal sectors and sidelining local workers. This leads to wage suppression and an erosion of labour rights, creating a dual economy that undermines the stability of the formal sector. This influx aggravates unemployment and deepens economic inequalities in urban centres like Delhi and Kolkata. The growing discontent among citizens, who feel their livelihoods and entitlements are being compromised, weakens faith in democratic institutions and governance.
Adding to this is the challenge of urban congestion. Cities with high concentrations of undocumented migrants face overpopulation in slums and informal settlements, leading to deteriorating living conditions and strained infrastructure. The chaos of illegal immigration, therefore, not only disrupts democratic governance but also erodes the social harmony that underpins India’s pluralistic society.
NATIONAL SECURITY AND REGIONAL VOLATILITY
Illegal immigration is not merely an economic or social concern; it is also a national security issue. The influx of undocumented individuals through porous borders with Bangladesh and Myanmar creates vulnerabilities that can be exploited by anti-national elements. The August 2024 crisis in Bangladesh—a pivotal moment of political upheaval and constitutional uncertainty—intensified these concerns. With the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and widespread unrest, thousands sought refuge in India, and many sought to cross borders without documentation. Such a surge of unauthorized migration heightened fears of infiltration by extremist groups and further destabilized border regions.
Communities like the Rohingya add another dimension to this debate. While their plight as refugees fleeing persecution is undeniable, the absence of robust identification mechanisms makes it challenging to ensure that those entering India do not pose security risks. Unchecked, this situation risks creating pockets of isolation within Indian society, where assimilation becomes difficult and law enforcement remains strained.
The threat of illegal immigration extends beyond isolated incidents. Historical events like the 26/11 attacks in Mumbai serve as stark reminders of how unregulated cross-border movements can enable nefarious actors to exploit vulnerabilities. These instances highlight the urgent need for a stringent policy framework that prioritizes national security without compromising humanitarian responsibilities.
PROTECTING RELIGIOUS MINORITIES
India’s legacy as a sanctuary for the persecuted is found in the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). By offering refuge to minority groups fleeing systemic oppression in neighbouring countries, the Act underscores India’s commitment to human rights. It seeks to address the harrowing realities faced by minorities in nations like Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan, where religious persecution often manifests as violence, forced conversions, and social ostracism.
The plight of Hindus in Bangladesh is particularly poignant. Political upheavals, including the August 2024 crisis, exposed the community to unprecedented levels of violence and displacement. Attacks on temples, homes, businesses, and neighbourhoods brought into sharp focus the vulnerabilities of minorities in an increasingly polarized environment. In Pakistan, the situation is equally dire, with Hindu women routinely subjected to abduction and forced conversion, stripping them of agency and dignity.
The CAA’s detractors often argue that its exclusion of Muslims, particularly Rohingya refugees, is discriminatory. However, this critique overlooks the Act’s intent and context. The CAA is not an all-encompassing immigration policy; it is a targeted humanitarian measure aimed at addressing the immediate plight of vulnerable communities systematically sidelined in Islamic-majority nations. Critics must recognize that addressing broader migration issues requires complementary mechanisms beyond the CAA.
India’s approach also aligns with the lessons of history. The chaotic migrations during the Partition of 1947 and the subsequent communal strife underscore the need for structured policies to manage population movements. By offering a legal framework to persecuted minorities, the CAA not only addresses a humanitarian crisis but also strengthens India’s moral authority as a protector of the oppressed.
CONCLUSION
Illegal immigration presents a multidimensional challenge, testing India’s ability to balance its democratic ideals with pragmatic governance. As a nation, India must act decisively to address this issue’s socio-economic, security, and humanitarian implications. Strengthened border controls, robust documentation systems, and diplomatic engagement with neighbouring countries are essential steps toward mitigating these challenges. At the same time, India must remain steadfast in its commitment to protecting persecuted minorities, reflecting the values enshrined in its Constitution. The CAA represents a step in this direction, but its implementation must be accompanied by broader policies that ensure fairness, security, and inclusivity. India’s response to illegal immigration must be compassionate but without compromising sovereignty. By prioritizing the well-being of its citizens and upholding its legacy as a sanctuary for the oppressed, India can navigate this complex issue while preserving its democratic ethos and cultural diversity. Only through thoughtful, inclusive, and firm action can India secure a harmonious future for all its people.
Let us not ignore a brilliant political scientist, economist and sociologist, rather a holistic thinker like Dr B.R. Ambedkar. Civilisation states that fear their past, fear their future and such states will have to make a paradigm shift and build narratives. And re-reading and understanding Ambedkar’s writings are a must at least in Vikaasit Bharat.
* Prof Santishree Dhulipudi Pandit is the Vice Chancellor of JNU.