The Jharkhand High Court on Thursday expressed deep dissatisfaction with the Central Government's handling of the influx of Bangladeshi infiltrators into the state, criticising key agencies for their lackadaisical approach to the issue.
The court, while hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) concerning the adverse impact of Bangladeshi infiltrators on the tribal population in Jharkhand, voiced its concern over the diminishing numbers of the indigenous community.
The bench, presided over by Chief Justice Sanjaya Kumar Mishra, was visibly displeased with the requests from the Intelligence Bureau (IB), Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), and Border Security Force (BSF) for additional time to file separate affidavits on the matter.
The court was particularly critical of the IB, noting that it operates around the clock yet had not submitted its report on such a sensitive issue.
"Jharkhand was created with the specific purpose of safeguarding tribal interests. However, it appears that the Central Government is showing little interest in curbing the illegal entry of Bangladeshi nationals into the state," the court remarked during the hearing.
It further questioned the Centre’s commitment, saying, "If the state government can file its reply promptly, what hinders the Central Government from doing the same?"
The High Court rejected the Centre's plea for a four-week extension to submit its response, directing instead that all relevant agencies file their replies within two weeks. The court has scheduled the next hearing for September 5.
The PIL, filed by petitioner Daniel Danish, raises concerns over the demographic changes in Jharkhand's Santhal Pargana division, attributing the shifts to the unchecked influx of Bangladeshi nationals.
The petitioner argues that this migration is leading to a decrease in the tribal population and cites the establishment of a significant number of madrasas in districts such as Jamtara, Pakur, Godda, and Sahibganj as evidence of the changing social fabric.
Danish also alleges that these infiltrators are forming matrimonial alliances with local tribal communities, further complicating the situation.
The petition demands that the Ministry of Home Affairs provide a comprehensive report detailing the measures taken to prevent illegal immigration from Bangladesh and the steps being undertaken to address the issue.
During the hearing, the court underscored the importance of timely action, stating that the security of the nation is at stake. "This case goes beyond mere demographic concerns; it is a matter of national security. The respondents must understand the gravity of the situation and act accordingly," the bench emphasized.
The High Court had previously issued notices to several central agencies, including the IB, BSF, Chief Election Commission of India, UIDAI, and the National Investigation Agency (NIA), seeking their input on the matter.
Additionally, the DCs and SPs of the six affected districts had already submitted their affidavits, outlining the steps taken by the state government to address the issue.
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