Concerns over India’s security and development are intensifying due to the growing influx of illegal immigrants from neighbouring countries, population experts have warned. They cautioned that unchecked
illegal migration is creating severe social, economic, and security challenges across the country.
These concerns were expressed during a discussion on “Illegal Immigration in Mumbai” held on Sunday at the Bandra Hindu Association auditorium. Eminent experts in population studies and social policy participated in the session.
Former Director of the Indian Institute of Population Studies (IIPS), Dr. S. K. Singh, stated that while India is progressing economically, illegal immigration is simultaneously expanding and obstructing the nation’s development journey. He pointed out that a large number of illegal immigrants are entering India from Bangladesh, Nepal, and Myanmar (formerly Burma), creating long-term challenges for national security and governance.
Dr. Singh highlighted a dual problem—on one hand, corrupt systems that facilitate illegal entry in exchange for money, and on the other, political forces attempting to settle specific communities within India for electoral gains. He explained that illegal immigrants typically first settle in northeastern states and West Bengal, before gradually moving to major metropolitan cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad, often with the support of previously settled migrants.
According to Dr. Singh, these immigrants frequently build networks with local political representatives to secure housing, identity documents, and civic benefits. In many cases, local corporators and political intermediaries assist them in exchange for financial incentives.
He further warned that some among these illegal immigrants become involved in illegal businesses, drug trafficking, terrorism, and other extremist activities, posing serious threats to internal security. Dr. Singh also shed light on how illegal migration is altering demographic patterns in certain regions across various states.
Issues such as social instability, cases of “love jihad,” influence on elections, ideological polarisation, and organised opposition to government policies were also discussed during the session. The experts noted that illegal immigrants often mobilise collectively to resist government schemes and administrative actions.
Illegal immigration is also impacting local employment, Dr. Singh observed. Migrants initially offer services at lower wages, undercutting local workers. He pointed out that in Mumbai, the presence of illegal immigrants has increased significantly among street vendors, delivery services, daily wage labour, construction work, and domestic services, including household help.
Dr. Souvik Mondal, Assistant Professor at Galgotias University, presented detailed statistical data illustrating the rising scale of illegal immigration and its adverse effects across multiple sectors. Advocate Sarvesh Mehendale remarked that illegal immigration disrupts the very social fabric of society.
The programme was successfully organised with the support of Ajit Maniyal, President of the Bandra Hindu Association.
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