The Union government has constituted a high-level committee to study illegal infiltration and what it described as “unnatural” changes in population patterns across different parts of the country.
The move comes amid intensifying political debate over shifting demographics and alleged infiltration in eastern and northeastern states. The panel’s formation follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Independence Day address last year, in which he said a committee would be set up to examine the impact of illegal infiltration and demographic changes.
According to a statement issued by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the committee will be headed by retired judge Prakash Navalkar. Its members include the Census Commissioner, former Uttar Pradesh Chief Secretary Durga Shankar Mishra, former IPS officer Balaji Srivastava, and economist Dr Shamika Ravi. The Foreigners Division of the Ministry of Home Affairs will act as the member secretary.
The committee will study population changes in border regions and areas with significant tribal populations, assessing demographic growth patterns among religious and social groups. It is expected to recommend solutions with a defined timeline.
The statement said demographic change driven by infiltration and other factors poses challenges to a country’s future, and could affect sovereignty, security, law and order, social stability, and the protection of tribal communities.
