Amit Shah's Upcoming Visit to Bihar: Focus on Demographic Changes and Security Issues
Amit Shah's Three-Day Visit to Bihar
Union Home Minister Amit Shah is set to embark on a three-day visit to Bihar from February 25 to 27, where he will emphasize issues such as demographic changes, illegal immigration, and unauthorized religious constructions. This visit is being described as a high-level review meeting, the first of its kind in Bihar, where Shah will directly oversee discussions with district magistrates (DMs) and superintendents of police (SPs) from seven districts in the Seemanchal region: Kishanganj, Araria, Purnia, Katihar, Madhepura, Saharsa, and Supaul. These districts, located near the India-Nepal and India-Bangladesh borders, have long been considered sensitive in terms of cross-border movement and internal security.
Reviewing Ground-Level Information
Sources connected to the event revealed that the meeting will focus on reviewing ground-level information regarding demographic changes, incidents of illegal immigration, and the status of allegedly unauthorized religious structures. Presentations from district administration and police officials, along with intelligence assessments, are expected to be part of the discussions. The Home Minister is likely to stress the need for coordinated action between civil administration and law enforcement agencies to address any security shortcomings.
Strengthening Coordination Against Illegal Activities
According to insiders, Shah will provide clear directives to enhance coordination between district administration and law enforcement agencies to tackle illegal immigration and unauthorized religious constructions. This marks the first time a Union Home Minister will chair such an extensive review meeting in Bihar, focusing specifically on demographic and immigration concerns at the district level. This initiative signals the central government's increasing attention to the Seemanchal region, which has gained prominence in political and security discussions due to its proximity to international borders and complex socio-economic conditions.
Comprehensive Security Discussions
Due to its proximity to international borders, the Seemanchal region has been under administrative scrutiny for security and socio-political reasons. In addition to the district review, Shah will lead several meetings related to the overall security landscape and internal security framework in Bihar. Topics for discussion are expected to include border management, intelligence coordination, policing strategies, and preparations against organized crime and extremist elements.
Review of Internal Security Preparedness
During his visit, the Home Minister will also take time to review Bihar's overall internal security preparedness. Senior officials from the Home Ministry, including Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan and Intelligence Bureau Director Tapan Deka, will accompany him. These officials will provide recommendations based on intelligence assessments and ground reports, highlighting the importance of the review process and the potential for further action based on the meeting's outcomes.
Meeting with Central Armed Police Forces
Shah will also hold a special meeting with the Central Armed Police Forces responsible for securing the India-Nepal border, specifically the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB). The discussions will center on border security challenges, including surveillance, intelligence sharing, and measures to curb illegal cross-border activities. Given Bihar's long and open border with Nepal, strengthening coordination between state police and central forces remains a top priority. The Seemanchal region has historically faced developmental challenges, including high population density, migration pressures, and limited infrastructure. In recent years, concerns regarding demographic changes and alleged cross-border immigration have sparked both political debate and administrative scrutiny.