Scan databases before giving IDs: Govt to states on illegal Bangladeshis, Rohingya crackdown
The Indian government has directed all states and union territories to verify identity databases before issuing government-issued IDs. This measure aims to stop illegal immigrants, mainly from Bangladesh and the Rohingya community, from obtaining Indian identity documents fraudulently.
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) issued the advisory after reports showed that many illegal migrants secured ID cards by providing false information. Officials fear that these fraudulent documents can help immigrants access benefits, vote illegally, or settle permanently.
Illegal Immigration: A Persistent Problem
Illegal immigration has troubled India for decades, especially in states bordering Bangladesh and Myanmar. States like Assam, West Bengal, Tripura, and Meghalaya witness constant inflow of undocumented immigrants. Many enter India through porous borders and later move to metropolitan areas such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Hyderabad.
The Rohingya Muslims, fleeing violence in Myanmar, have also found refuge in India. However, the government does not officially recognize them as refugees and considers their presence illegal.
Officials say these immigrants strain local resources and pose security risks.
Key Points in the Government Advisory
The MHA’s advisory instructs states to:
- Check all ID applicants against official databases such as Aadhaar, the National Population Register (NPR), and voter rolls.
- Avoid issuing IDs in slums, refugee camps, or unauthorized colonies without proper verification.
- Improve coordination between police, intelligence, and local administrations.
- Conduct focused verification drives in areas with suspected illegal immigrants.
- Report suspicious applicants to the Centre regularly.
The advisory encourages states to make the verification system digital and real-time to prevent forgery and fraud.
National Security Concerns
The government views illegal immigration as a significant security threat. Officials warn that foreign nationals with fake Indian IDs could get involved in criminal activities, terrorism, or electoral fraud.
An MHA official explained, “When illegal immigrants obtain Indian IDs, they blend in, making it tough to distinguish them from citizens.”
This concern grew after the National Register of Citizens (NRC) exercise in Assam in 2019, which excluded many residents for lacking valid documents.
State-Level Actions
Several states have begun tightening their ID issuance processes. Assam is actively cross-checking voter and Aadhaar data against NRC lists to spot discrepancies. Delhi police are inspecting areas known to house Rohingyas and Bangladeshi migrants to stop fraudulent document issuance.
In Hyderabad, officials are conducting background checks on foreign nationals in slum clusters. States have also been warned to take strict action against officials who facilitate illegal ID issuance.
Balancing Security and Human Rights
While the government’s crackdown has gained support, it also faces criticism. Human rights groups argue that many Rohingya refugees and their children born in India face statelessness if denied IDs.
Critics urge the government to protect vulnerable individuals and provide due process. However, the government insists it must uphold its laws and protect national interests.
The Path Forward
India must enforce its immigration laws firmly but fairly. Strengthening border controls, speeding up deportations, and clarifying refugee policies will help manage illegal migration better.
The Centre’s advisory to states to verify databases before issuing IDs marks a crucial step toward securing India’s identity systems. If implemented well, it can protect citizens’ rights and maintain electoral and social welfare integrity.
Conclusion
India faces a complex challenge balancing national security with humanitarian concerns. The new government directive requires states to verify identity databases before issuing documents. This policy aims to prevent illegal immigrants from gaining citizenship rights or accessing government benefits fraudulently.
As states adopt this measure, strong coordination, transparency, and respect for human dignity will determine its success.
