Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Mar 27: The Lok Sabha on Thursday passed the Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah emphasizing that the legislation prioritizes national security while facilitating lawful immigration. The Bill aims to curb illegal entry into India and modernize immigration laws, replacing outdated colonial-era regulations.
Addressing the House, Shah made it clear that India's borders cannot remain open to unchecked migration. "This is a nation, not a dharamshala (charitable shelter). People cannot enter on any pretext and stay forever. Those who contribute to the country's progress are welcome, but those who threaten our security are not," he asserted.
The Bill, passed by voice vote despite demands for referral to a parliamentary committee, seeks to replace four existing laws: the Foreigners Act, 1946; the Passport Act, 1920; the Registration of Foreigners Act, 1939; and the Immigration Carriers' Liability Act, 2000. Shah underscored that these outdated laws were designed to serve British colonial interests and that India now needs a framework that aligns with national priorities.
The legislation introduces stringent measures, including mandatory passports and visas for entry, with violations carrying a jail term of up to five years and fines of up to ?5 lakh. Using forged documents will attract imprisonment between two and seven years, along with a fine of up to ?10 lakh. Authorities will also have the power to deny entry to any foreigner deemed a threat to national security.
Educational, healthcare, and other institutions hosting foreign nationals will be required to report their presence online. Additionally, transport carriers found bringing undocumented foreigners into the country will face penalties of ?5 lakh and will be responsible for deporting individuals denied entry. The Bill also grants immigration officers the authority to arrest individuals without a warrant, though Shah assured that all actions would be legally regulated.
The legislation also formalizes the existing blacklist of individuals barred from entry into India and mandates that designated entry points be notified under the new framework. "People cannot enter from just anywhere. Our borders are sensitive and cannot remain open as they were in the past," Shah stated.
By modernizing immigration laws, the Bill seeks to bolster India’s internal security, streamline entry processes, and deter unauthorized immigration while ensuring that the country remains accessible to lawful visitors.