Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Jan 8: Population experts and social policy specialists have raised serious concerns over the increasing influx of illegal immigrants into India, warning that unchecked migration is posing grave challenges to the nation’s security, economy and social stability.
These views were expressed during a discussion on “Illegal Immigration in Mumbai” held at the Bandra Hindu Association auditorium on Sunday. The event saw participation from eminent scholars and legal experts in the field of population studies and governance.
Former Director of the Indian Institute of Population Studies (IIPS), Dr S K Singh, said that while India is making steady economic progress, the parallel rise in illegal immigration is becoming a major obstacle to sustainable development. He pointed out that a significant number of illegal immigrants are entering India from neighbouring countries such as Bangladesh, Nepal and Myanmar, creating long-term governance and security concerns.
Dr Singh highlighted a dual challenge — corruption that facilitates illegal entry in exchange for money, and political forces allegedly attempting to settle certain communities for electoral benefits. He explained that illegal immigrants often first settle in northeastern states and West Bengal, and later migrate to major metropolitan cities including Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai and Hyderabad, usually with the support of earlier settlers.
According to him, these migrants frequently establish links with local political representatives to obtain housing, identity documents and civic benefits, with some corporators and intermediaries allegedly aiding them for financial gain.
Dr Singh further cautioned that a section of illegal immigrants gets involved in unlawful activities such as drug trafficking, terrorism and other extremist operations, posing a serious threat to internal security. He also noted that illegal migration is altering demographic patterns in several regions across different states.
The discussion also touched upon issues such as social instability, electoral influence, ideological polarisation, organised resistance to government policies, and concerns like “love jihad”. Experts observed that illegal immigrants often mobilise collectively to oppose administrative actions and government schemes.
Illegal immigration is also affecting local employment, Dr Singh said, noting that migrants often work for lower wages, undercutting local labour. In Mumbai, their presence has grown notably among street vendors, delivery services, daily wage labourers, construction workers and domestic help.
Assistant Professor at Galgotias University, Dr Souvik Mondal, presented statistical data highlighting the scale of illegal immigration and its adverse impact across sectors. Advocate Sarvesh Mehendale remarked that illegal immigration disrupts the social fabric of society.
The programme was organised with the support of Ajit Maniyal, President of the Bandra Hindu Association.