Center Informs Supreme Court: Gathering Data on Illegal Immigrants Across Different Regions Not Feasible

The Central government has conveyed to the Supreme Court that collecting data on illegal immigrants residing in various parts of the country is not feasible due to the clandestine entry of such individuals. The Supreme Court is currently hearing a case related to the constitutional validity of Section 6A of the Citizenship Act. This section pertains to illegal immigrants in Assam.

Gathering data on illegal immigrants deemed impossible

The government informed the court that citizenship has been granted to 17,861 people under this provision. Between 1966 and 1971, as per orders from the Foreigners Tribunals, the foreign identity of 32,381 individuals was established.

On December 7, the Supreme Court had asked the Central government how many Bangladeshi citizens were granted Indian citizenship in Assam from January 1, 1966, to March 25, 1971, and sought data from the government. 

The court also inquired about steps taken by the government to prevent illegal infiltration. In response, the Central government stated that illegal immigrants enter the country covertly without valid documents.

Identifying and detaining illegal immigrants without proper documentation and repatriating them to their countries is a complex process. Therefore, gathering data on illegal immigrants residing in different parts of the country is not possible.

Over 8,000 cases pending in Guwahati High Court

 The government disclosed that between 2017 and 2022, 14,346 foreigners were deported to their respective countries. Currently, 100 Foreigners Tribunals are operational in Assam, with 3.34 lakh cases disposed of by October 31, 2023, and 97,714 cases settled by the same date.

There are 8,461 cases pending in the Guwahati High Court related to orders from the Foreigners Tribunal. The government informed the court about efforts made by Assam Police, border patrolling, and other measures to curb infiltration. Additionally, fencing is being installed along the border to prevent illegal entry.