The Union government has constituted a high-level committee to examine what it has termed “unnatural demographic changes” in India, with a focus on illegal immigration and other contributing factors affecting population patterns.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced the formation of the committee, stating that the issue poses a significant challenge to national security, sovereignty, social balance, and the protection of tribal communities.
Shah said the committee was in line with a commitment made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Independence Day last year. He added that the panel will carry out a comprehensive study of demographic shifts across the country.
The committee will be chaired by retired Supreme Court judge Justice Prakash Prabhakar Naolekar. Other members include former IAS officer Durga Shankar Mishra, former IPS officer Balaji Srivastava, economist Dr Shamika Ravi, and the Census Commissioner. The Joint Secretary (Foreigners-I) of the Ministry of Home Affairs will serve as the Member Secretary.
According to the Home Minister, the panel will assess patterns of demographic change at regional, religious, and social levels, particularly those linked to illegal immigration and other “unnatural causes.” It has also been tasked with suggesting a structured and time-bound policy response to address the issue.
Shah also highlighted concerns related to infiltration, smuggling, and cross-border criminal activities during his visit to a Border Security Force (BSF) post in Rajasthan. He said border security agencies must remain vigilant in view of emerging threats, including drone-based trafficking and infiltration attempts.
The announcement is expected to generate political debate, as issues related to migration and demographic shifts continue to remain sensitive in several border and interior regions of the country.
