Assam Government Discloses Significant Figures on Illegal Immigration and Border Security
The Assam government has presented comprehensive data in the state assembly regarding the detection and deportation of illegal foreigners, alongside updates on border security and the implementation of the historic Assam Accord. Minister Atul Bora, responsible for Assam Accord implementation, delivered the detailed report on Wednesday, shedding light on decades of efforts to address illegal immigration.
Detection and Deportation Statistics Since the Assam Accord
More than 1.70 lakh illegal foreigners have been identified in Assam, with approximately 31,000 individuals pushed back since the signing of the Assam Accord four decades ago. This landmark agreement concluded a six-year mass agitation against illegal immigration, marking a pivotal moment in the state's history.
Minister Bora elaborated that in the past year alone, 1,421 individuals were repatriated under orders from the Ministry of Home Affairs, and 52 declared foreigners were expelled using the Immigrants (Expulsion from Assam) Act of 1950. These actions underscore the ongoing enforcement measures to curb illegal entry.
Breakdown of Identified Immigrants and Deportation Processes
According to the provisions of the Assam Accord, the government has meticulously categorized the detected immigrants. A total of 1,37,152 immigrants who entered Assam after March 25, 1971, have been identified and declared foreigners. Additionally, 33,485 individuals who arrived between 1966 and 1971 have been similarly classified.
The deportation efforts have been systematic over the years. From 1985 to March 2013, 29,663 illegal foreigners were sent back through the 'Push Back' process. Between 2013 and January 2026, 468 individuals were deported, including 458 convicted foreigners, highlighting the legal framework's application in recent times.
Border Security Measures and Infrastructure
Assam shares a 267.5-kilometer boundary with Bangladesh, a critical front in managing illegal crossings. Out of this, 228.541 kilometers have been fenced, enhancing physical barriers against unauthorized entry. However, a 4.35-kilometer stretch in Sribhumi district remains unfenced due to objections from the Border Guard Bangladesh.
For the riverine areas, which pose unique challenges, surveillance is maintained through the Comprehensive Integrated Border Management System operated by the Border Security Force (BSF). This technological approach ensures continuous monitoring of vulnerable sections.
Implementation of Clause 6 and Committee Recommendations
Clause 6 of the Assam Accord, which promises constitutional safeguards for the people of Assam, is a key focus area. Minister Bora reported that the Justice (retd) Biplab Sharma committee submitted a report with 67 recommendations. Of these, 52 recommendations fall under the state's purview and are already in progress.
The remaining 15 recommendations have been forwarded to the Central government for consideration. In a collaborative effort, a subcommittee comprising ministers and representatives from the All Assam Students' Union (AASU) submitted its report in November 2025, with steps now underway for implementation, reflecting ongoing dialogue and action.
Current Border Guarding Setup and Future Plans
The Bangladesh border in Assam is currently secured by a multi-agency force. This includes 91 BSF border outposts, 14 Assam Police border outposts, and 14 patrol posts, ensuring robust coverage. To further strengthen security, plans are in place to add 13 more border outposts and 12 border police stations, indicating a proactive approach to enhancing border management.
These measures collectively demonstrate Assam's commitment to addressing illegal immigration through detection, deportation, and fortified border security, while also advancing the promises of the Assam Accord for the state's residents.
