India's illegal immigration problem: A better way forward

Recent discussions around migration between India and Bangladesh have highlighted significant concerns. India Today has recently published articles and videos focusing on what it terms "unnerving infiltration" along the India-Bangladesh border. These reports primarily focus on individuals crossing the border for work. However, while these headlines capture attention, they fail to address the larger, more critical picture of demographic changes that are reshaping the region.

Historical Context: Migration and Partition

We know that historical, cultural, and religious realities have shaped India's borders with Bangladesh. The Partition of 1947 divided Bengal along religious lines, creating East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) and leaving millions displaced. In 1971, Bangladesh gained independence from Pakistan after a brutal conflict, creating another wave of migration. Today, migration continues, but this time driven by economic necessity rather than religious or political upheaval.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar recently pointed out that border controls continue to be a challenge.  What he did not say was that a new demographic change is underway, driven by illegal immigration.

This is not a new phenomenon; the agitation in Assam during the 1970s and 1980s brought attention to unchecked migration. Yet, the issue remains unresolved. As Rajnish Nath, a successful business executive from Kolkata, observes, "My neighbors have changed before my eyes. We feel like we are being overwhelmed by those who chose to leave during Partition but are now coming back illegally."

The Cultural Lens

Despite the religious and demographic shifts, cultural ties amongst the people of Bengal remain strong. A member of the Delhi intelligentsia, who preferred to remain anonymous due to the sensitivity of the subject, notes, "The cultural links within the larger Bengal region are far stronger than the religious differences." She cites examples such as Nazrul Geeti, devotional songs composed by the Muslim poet Kazi Nazrul Islam that draw from Hindu symbolisms, as a symbol of the region's shared heritage. Such cultural connections highlight the complex relationship between the religious, cultural, and political identities of the region.

The Bigger Picture: Demographic Shifts

The demographic reality, however, paints a concerning picture. Since 1971, the proportion of Hindus in Bangladesh has declined significantly from 13.5% to approximately 8% in 2023, while the Muslim population has grown from 85% to 90%.

Similar trends are evident in Indian border states. In West Bengal, the Hindu population decreased from 78.03% in 1971 to an estimated 69% in 2023, while the Muslim population grew from 20.46% to approximately 30%. Assam, Meghalaya, and Tripura have witnessed similar shifts, driven by higher fertility rates among Muslims and (illegal) migration patterns.

Social and Humanitarian Factors

This shift is not merely about religious numbers; it underscores economic and social challenges. Migrants cross the border seeking better opportunities, contributing to the labor force but also straining resources. The Government of India has attempted to address this issue effectively. To tackle this issue, the Indian government has implemented several measures and policies aimed at curbing illegal immigration. These include border security initiatives, legal frameworks, deportation and detention policies, and collaboration with neighboring countries.  However, by and large, undocumented immigrants either go undetected or acquire Aadhaar and Voter ID cards, integrating into the country permanently.  Furthermore, while there are many sticks in play, there are no carrots to incentivize compliance with the law, either for the migrants who have no other economic opportunities, or the Indian middle and upper class, which needs to hire them to take care of their factories as well as homes, children and other family members.

Beyond the economic and social challenges, undocumented immigrants face significant humanitarian issues. Their living conditions are often dire, with limited access to basic amenities, healthcare, and education. Human rights issues, such as exploitation by employers and lack of legal protection, are prevalent. Social integration, even with cultural similarities, can become a challenge, with limited support from local communities. Children of illegal immigrants can face additional hardships, including difficulties in accessing education and the risk of child labor. Health and well-being are also major concerns, with poor living conditions leading to various health issues.  Such social tensions could unwittingly become the cause of political tensions that are fueled by the demographic changes as well.

How other countries handle such issues

To gain a broader perspective on how to address illegal immigration, it is useful to compare India's situation with other countries facing similar challenges. For instance, the United States employs a combination of border security measures and legal frameworks like DACA to manage illegal immigration by allowing the minor children of migrants to remain, provided they do not take part in criminal activity. The European Union relies on agreements like the Schengen Agreement and agencies like Frontex to coordinate efforts among member states. Australia has implemented far strict border control measures and offshore processing centers, while Middle Eastern countries use guest worker programs and sponsorship systems. By examining these approaches, India can also identify potential strategies that could be adapted to its unique context.

A Better Way Forward: Legalizing Work and Tracking Workers

As India continues to grow economically, migration pressures are unlikely to subside. Ignoring illegal immigration will only allow it to continue, so the problem cannot be wished away. It is imperative to adopt a structured approach to manage this phenomenon. A legalized system of guest workers with non-citizen “Atithi” or “Videshi Aadhaar” cards could offer a solution. This model has already been successful in many countries of the Middle East.  When implemented, it would:

1. Track migrant movements and ensure compliance with laws, completely disincentivizing illegal behavior.
2. Allow migrants to enter and work legally, pay taxes in India, and send money home.
3. Deny citizenship and associated benefits to migrants, thus ensuring that their home countries will always provide them those benefits
4. Ensure that Indian citizens get the welfare schemes reserved for them.

Migrants would have an incentive to follow the law since it would also allow them to be free of the criminal infiltration mafia that currently operates all along the 4,096-kilometer India-Bangladesh border. The fifth longest land border in the world, and substantially longer than the 3,500-kilometer India-China Line of Actual Control, it can create a transparent and legal pathway for economic movement, reduce illegal crossings and ensure better resource allocation within India. It would also increase economic opportunity in Bangladesh and create more goodwill there for India. As a bonus, it can reduce the anti-India sentiment caused by the recent upheavals there. In fact, the only ones who would be against such a plan would be the touts themselves, and any politicians who depend on the vote banks of undocumented immigrants!

Preserving Cultural and National Integrity

The challenge of managing migration is not just about numbers; it is about preserving the cultural and social fabric of the nation. Legalized migration systems can provide a balance, allowing economic integration without compromising national security or social harmony. Recognizing the shared cultural heritage of the region can also play a vital role in fostering understanding and cooperation between India and Bangladesh.

As India continues its journey of economic and political stability, it must address these demographic changes with pragmatism and sensitivity. Migration, if managed well, can become a strength rather than a challenge, fostering economic growth and cultural enrichment while maintaining the integrity of the Indian state.