Leader of Opposition in the Jharkhand Assembly, Babulal Marandi, has demanded the implementation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Jharkhand, particularly in the Santal Pargana region, alleging that Bangladeshi infiltration has led to major demographic changes in the state.
Speaking in Dumka, Marandi claimed that illegal infiltration was rapidly changing the population pattern in Jharkhand, especially in Santal Pargana, and urged the Centre to take steps toward implementing NRC in the region.
Claims of Demographic Change in Santal Pargana
Marandi alleged that the Muslim population in Santal Pargana had increased significantly after Independence, while the tribal population had declined.
“After SIR in Jharkhand, the Centre should take initiative to implement NRC in the state, especially in Santal Pargana,” he said.
According to Marandi, the tribal population in Jharkhand was 35.38 percent in 1951 but declined to 26.20 percent by 2011. He also claimed that the Muslim population increased from 8.09 percent in 1951 to 14.53 percent in 2011.
In Santal Pargana, he said, the tribal population dropped from 44.67 percent in 1951 to 28.11 percent in 2011, while the Muslim population rose from 9.44 percent to 22.73 percent during the same period.
“From this, it can be easily estimated at what speed the population of Muslims has increased,” Marandi said.
Alleges Infiltration Through Border Areas
Marandi linked the demographic changes to what he described as continuous Bangladeshi infiltration through neighbouring areas.
He claimed that districts such as Pakur and Sahibganj, which are close to West Bengal, had become entry routes for alleged infiltrators due to their geographical location.
“Pakur and Sahibganj districts of Santal Pargana are adjacent to West Bengal, and Bangladesh is adjacent to West Bengal. Infiltrators took advantage of this route and gradually made Santal Pargana a shelter,” he alleged.
‘Infiltration Is a Threat to the Country’
Calling infiltration a national security concern, Marandi said illegal immigration posed a challenge for governments.
“Infiltration is a threat to the country. It is a major challenge for the government to stop illegal activities linked to infiltration,” he said.
No official data or government response regarding Marandi’s claims on infiltration or demographic change was immediately available.
