Assam on the Edge: Safeguarding Indigenous Identity

Assam finds itself facing a defining challenge. The Gauhati High Court recently warned of a “silent and invidious demographic invasion” from illegal migrants from Bangladesh, highlighting a problem that has long simmered beneath the surface. For the indigenous communities of Assam—ethnic Assamese, Bodos, Karbis, and other tribal groups—this is not merely a demographic question; it is a matter of survival, culture, language, and political representation.

Official data underscores the urgency. The Assam government reported that until 31 December 2024, 1,65,531 persons were identified as illegal immigrants under the Assam Accord. Of these, 32,870 entered between 1966 and 1971, while 1,32,661 arrived after March 1971. Around 30,115 illegal foreigners have been deported so far. The Supreme Court has reiterated that anyone entering Assam after 25 March 1971 from Bangladesh must be treated as an illegal immigrant. Yet, authorities admit that precise numbers are difficult to determine due to clandestine entry and inadequate documentation. These figures, while partial, indicate a serious and persistent challenge. For indigenous Assamese communities, maintaining demographic, cultural, and political space is crucial for the preservation of identity.

Political influence is among the most immediate stakes. When migrant populations grow disproportionately or settle in concentrated pockets, the representation of local communities in governance, public services, and decision-making risks dilution. The Gauhati High Court’s description of migration as “external aggression” reflects the deep concern over how demographic shifts can impact political and social balance.

Land and resources are also under pressure. Many indigenous groups in Assam rely on agriculture, forest-based livelihoods, and traditional occupations. Illegal settlements frequently occupy forest land, riverine char islands, and ecologically sensitive areas, threatening both the environment and traditional ways of life. Recent surveys have identified non-indigenous residents on forest land near Guwahati, illustrating the scale of the issue. Loss of land affects more than livelihoods—it impacts cultural landmarks, sacred spaces, and traditional community structures, eroding the very identity of Assam’s native population.

Language and culture face similar threats. Assamese and tribal dialects form the foundation of the state’s identity. Large-scale migration, particularly of Bengali-speaking populations, risks altering this cultural and linguistic balance. According to the 2011 Census, Assamese-speaking people made up 48.38 % of Assam’s population, while Bengali-speaking individuals accounted for 28.92 %. Though these figures do not directly measure illegal migration, they indicate the potential for long-term demographic and cultural shifts if the trend continues unchecked.

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A nuanced perspective is essential. Not every Bengali speaker or person of Bangladesh origin is an illegal immigrant. Many have legitimate residence, citizenship, or long-standing historical roots. Migration for livelihood, historical upheaval, and displacement complicates the simplistic categorization of “immigrant” versus “indigenous.” Indigenous communities themselves are diverse, facing varying degrees of development and socio-economic challenges. While migration is a pressing concern, it should complement—not overshadow—the broader agenda of economic development, education, and cultural preservation for Assam’s native population.

Responding effectively requires a balance of enforcement, governance, and foresight. Legal and administrative mechanisms must ensure the proper identification, adjudication, and deportation of illegal immigrants, while protecting the rights of genuine citizens. The Assam government has indicated it will invoke the Immigrants (Expulsion from Assam) Order, 1950 to expedite action, bypassing slower tribunal-based processes. Supreme Court rulings affirming the legality of the Citizenship Act’s provisions provide a strong legislative basis, but safeguards must remain to prevent wrongful targeting of citizens.

Border management is a critical dimension of the solution. Assam shares nearly 1,885 km of international boundary with Bangladesh, making enhanced fencing, regular patrols, biometric verification, and community engagement essential. Preventive measures must complement reactive deportation efforts to preserve long-term demographic integrity. Equally important is the protection of land and cultural heritage. Traditional lands, forest reserves, tribal habitats, and religious and cultural institutions such as satras must be safeguarded through legislation, zoning regulations, and secure land titles. Recent land recovery drives for encroached satras are encouraging, but transparency, fairness, and community involvement remain vital.

Demographic concerns must also be addressed alongside inclusive development for indigenous communities. Ensuring quality education, healthcare, economic opportunities, and infrastructure strengthens their capacity to thrive in their ancestral homeland. Economic marginalization intensifies fears of demographic encroachment, making development both a practical and symbolic safeguard. At the same time, protecting indigenous rights must harmonize with respect for human dignity, particularly for migrants who have been residing in the region for decades. Dialogue, transparency, and careful communication can reduce social tension and foster trust between communities.

Ultimately, Assam’s demographic equilibrium is inseparable from the preservation of its cultural, linguistic, and territorial identity. Legal rulings and government acknowledgment make it clear that migration is central to the state’s future. Indigenous communities must be assured that their cultural space, heritage, and political voice remain protected. At the same time, responses to illegal migration must be guided by fairness, due process, and human rights. Strong legal enforcement, robust border control, protection of land and heritage, inclusive development, and community engagement together form a comprehensive roadmap to safeguard Assam’s identity.

Preserving Assam’s demographic, cultural, and social integrity is not merely a legal or political necessity; it is a moral imperative. By upholding the rights of indigenous peoples while respecting humanitarian norms, Assam can remain demographically balanced, socially harmonious, culturally vibrant, and resilient. Protecting the identity and interests of its native population ensures that Assam’s rich heritage thrives for generations to come.