Assam's Government Takes Firm Stance Against Illegal Immigration
A Strong Approach to Illegal Immigration
The Assam government, led by Himanta Biswa Sarma, has adopted a stringent and uncompromising stance against illegal immigration from Bangladesh, which has become a central theme in the state's political landscape. Over the past five years, decisive actions have been taken against illegal entrants, while simultaneously fostering rapid economic growth, enhancing law and order, and aggressively developing infrastructure. This dual agenda of security and development positions the BJP favorably ahead of the upcoming assembly elections. The message to the people of Assam is clear: the state will not tolerate illegal immigration nor allow the pace of development to slow down.
Immediate Deportation of Illegal Immigrants
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has made it clear that individuals declared foreigners by the foreign tribunals will be expelled from the state within a week. He reported that 2,000 illegal immigrants have already been identified and sent back, with no leniency expected in the future. The district administration has been instructed to take direct action without compromise, and immediate deportation orders will be issued where applicable.
Improved Law and Order
Sarma also asserted that this policy has strengthened law and order in the state. Citing data from the Ministry of Home Affairs, he noted that Assam ranks first in the implementation of new criminal laws. The number of registered cases dropped from 133,000 in 2021 to 43,748 in 2025. Furthermore, the rate of filing charges has increased by 81%, and the conviction rate has risen from 6% to 26.38%.
Infrastructure Developments
On the infrastructure front, the Chief Minister highlighted several government achievements. Four new bridges are under construction over the Brahmaputra River, with a bridge connecting Guwahati to North Guwahati set to open in February. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to lay the foundation for a 32-kilometer elevated corridor in Kaziranga, costing approximately ₹6,957 crores. Additionally, the foundation for the Gelafu railway line project and the road and rail underwater tunnel connecting Gohpur to Numaligarh will also be laid this month. Timelines have been established for the Aerocity project and the Kopili hydroelectric project.
Economic Growth
Regarding economic progress, the Chief Minister stated that according to the Reserve Bank of India, Assam has become the fastest-growing state in the country from 2020 to 2025. While the national average growth rate was 29%, Assam recorded a remarkable 45% growth. Per capita income has reached ₹1.59 lakh, and the state's revenue growth stands at 53%.
Political Implications of Immigration Policy
The issue of illegal immigration has long been a contentious topic in Assam, but the Sarma government's firm approach has consistently addressed it. The announcement of deportation within a week of tribunal decisions responds to the longstanding dissatisfaction within Assamese society regarding land encroachment, demographic changes, and identity crises. The Chief Minister's statements send two clear signals: first, the government will not entertain any political pressure after legal processes are concluded; second, it reassures the majority voter base that their concerns are taken seriously. In Assam, elections now revolve around issues of identity and security, not just infrastructure. The BJP's aggressive stance against illegal immigration unites its core voters and attracts those who have long demanded decisive action. Conversely, this issue poses a challenge for the opposition, which risks being labeled as pro-immigration if they oppose the government's stance.
Setting the Agenda for Elections
From an electoral perspective, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma's statements set the agenda for the BJP. By linking development projects with security and identity issues, the message is clear: a strong government leads to a strong Assam.