Threats of Illegal Transborder Migration to India’s Security:

1. National Security Risks:

• Terrorism and Insurgency: Illegal migration can facilitate the entry of extremist elements and terrorists into India. For instance, the infiltration of militants from Bangladesh into Assam and West Bengal has exacerbated regional conflicts and security concerns.
• Criminal Activities: Migrants can contribute to an increase in criminal activities such as drug trafficking and human smuggling. Recent cases in Punjab highlight how illegal migrants have been involved in cross-border drug smuggling operations.

2. Social and Economic Strain:

• Resource Allocation: Large numbers of illegal migrants can strain public resources such as healthcare, education, and housing. For example, in areas like Delhi and Mumbai, the influx of migrants has led to overcrowded slums and increased pressure on urban infrastructure.
• Employment Competition: Migrants often compete with local populations for jobs, potentially leading to unemployment and social unrest among local communities.

3. Border Management Challenges:

• Monitoring and Surveillance: Managing extensive borders, especially in sensitive regions like the India-Bangladesh border, poses a significant challenge. The porous nature of these borders makes it difficult to control unauthorized crossings.

Strategies to Curb Illegal Transborder Migration:

1. Strengthening Border Security:

• Fencing and Surveillance: Enhancing physical barriers such as border fences and employing advanced surveillance technologies (drones, infrared cameras) can help control illegal crossings. For example, India has increased border fencing along the India-Bangladesh border to reduce illegal migration.
• Improved Border Patrols: Increasing the number of border patrols and using technology for real-time monitoring can improve detection and interception of illegal migrants.

2. Legal and Policy Measures:

• Streamlined Immigration Policies: Developing and enforcing strict immigration and visa regulations can help manage legal migration and reduce illegal entries. The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and the National Register of Citizens (NRC) are recent measures aimed at addressing migration issues, though they have also been controversial.
• International Cooperation: Engaging in bilateral agreements with neighboring countries to address migration issues and improve border management is crucial. India has worked with Bangladesh to address cross-border migration concerns through diplomatic channels.

3. Socio-Economic Development:

• Addressing Push Factors: Tackling the root causes of migration such as poverty, unemployment, and conflict in neighboring countries can reduce the impetus for illegal migration. Initiatives like the South Asia Regional Initiative for Economic Integration aim to improve economic conditions in the region.
• Community Engagement: Building awareness and encouraging local communities to participate in monitoring and reporting illegal activities can enhance overall border security.

Recent Examples:

• Assam’s NRC Process: The National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam was implemented to identify illegal immigrants and provide a legal framework for their deportation. It has faced criticism for its execution and impact on genuine residents.
• India-Bangladesh Border Fencing: The ongoing effort to complete border fencing along the India-Bangladesh border is a significant step in controlling illegal migration and enhancing border security.

Conclusion: Illegal transborder migration poses severe threats to India’s security, impacting national security, social stability, and resource allocation. Strengthening border security, implementing effective legal measures, and addressing socio-economic factors are essential strategies to curb illegal migration and mitigate its impacts.