Amid rising concerns of potential large-scale migration from Bangladesh to Assam and its Sixth Schedule autonomous council areas, the Bodo National Students’ Union (BONSU) has called on the Indian and Assam governments to enforce strict surveillance at the border with Bangladesh. The demand comes in the wake of a recent political crisis in Bangladesh that could lead to an increase in illegal immigration, posing significant challenges to the region.
Memorandum Submitted on World Indigenous People’s Day
On the occasion of International Day of the World’s Indigenous People, BONSU submitted a memorandum to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma through the District Commissioner of Kokrajhar. The memorandum emphasized the need for stringent monitoring and enforcement to prevent illegal infiltration from Bangladesh into Assam, particularly within the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) area, which operates under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution.
Threats to Assam’s Tribal Communities
BONSU President Bonjit Manjil Basumatary and Spokesperson Hem Chandra Brahma outlined the potential threats posed by the influx of Bangladeshi migrants. They expressed concern that political instability and religious persecution in Bangladesh could lead to a demographic shift in Assam, particularly within the BTC region. This shift could have serious consequences, including disruptions in governance, representation issues within tribal councils, and challenges to the cultural identity and traditions of the tribal communities.
Impacts on Resources, Governance, and Cultural Identity
The memorandum highlighted several key concerns:
- Administrative and Governance Challenges: An increase in non-tribal populations could disrupt governance and representation within the tribal councils, undermining the balance of power and local administration.
- Pressure on Tribal Lands and Resources: The influx of migrants may lead to disputes over land use and ownership, placing additional pressure on tribal lands and resources.
- Cultural and Economic Impact: The unique cultural identity and traditions of the tribal communities may face dilution or conflict due to the changing demographic landscape. Additionally, increased competition for jobs and resources could threaten the economic stability of already disadvantaged tribal areas.
Calls for Policy Revisions and Legal Framework Updates
BONSU’s memorandum urged both the central and state governments to revisit and revise legal frameworks and policies to address the implications of increased immigration in Sixth Schedule areas. The student body also called for:
- Enhanced Border Security: Improved surveillance, patrolling, and technological monitoring to prevent illegal immigration.
- Strengthening Autonomous Councils: Providing additional support and resources to manage local affairs effectively, including land and resource management.
- Exemption from CAA: Exempting Sixth Schedule councils from the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) to safeguard the demographic balance.
- Upgrading BTC: Considering upgrading BTC to an autonomous state under Article 244(A) of the Indian Constitution to better protect tribal rights.
Economic Development and Ongoing Monitoring
BONSU further urged the government to promote economic development through targeted programs aimed at uplifting tribal communities and addressing resource competition. They also called for the establishment of mechanisms for ongoing monitoring and evaluation of immigration trends and their impacts on tribal areas to inform future policy adjustments.
Legal Assistance and Advocacy for Tribal Communities
In response to these challenges, BONSU emphasized the importance of providing legal assistance and advocacy to help tribal communities protect their rights and navigate the complexities of changing demographics. The student body hopes that these measures will safeguard the cultural and economic interests of Assam’s tribal population while ensuring the integrity of the region’s governance structures.
