Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday, August 29, reiterated that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) remains firm in its mission to make Assam and the entire country free of infiltrators.
Speaking at a program in Guwahati to mark the birth centenary of Assam’s first non-Congress Chief Minister Golap Borbora, Shah said infiltration has been one of the most pressing issues in the state and the government is determined to eliminate it.
He pointed out that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recently announced high-power demography mission will play a key role in identifying illegal foreigners and safeguarding the rights of Indian citizens.
Remembering Golap Borbora’s Legacy
Shah recalled Borbora’s efforts in 1978 when the voter list cleansing drive revealed nearly 37,000 illegal foreigners in Assam.
He noted that this campaign became the foundation of the historic Assam Agitation, which eventually reshaped the political narrative of the state.
The Home Minister said Borbora’s courage to act decisively against illegal migration should inspire present-day leaders. He stressed that Borbora’s commitment to protecting Assam’s identity continues to remain relevant even today.
Criticism of Opposition Resistance
In his speech, Amit Shah strongly criticized opposition parties for what he called their “political moral degradation.”
He pointed out that the opposition has resisted the Special Revision of the (SIR) voter roll cleansing exercise, even though it is aimed at ensuring fairness and accuracy in Assam’s electoral process.
According to Shah, such resistance shows a lack of commitment to protecting national interests. He argued that political parties should rise above short-term gains and focus on the long-term security and stability of India.
Linking Assam’s Past with India’s Future
The Home Minister connected Assam’s historical struggle against infiltration with the central government’s larger national mission.
He said, “What started in Assam decades ago must now become a national movement. We cannot allow infiltrators to threaten our demographics, our economy, and our security.”
He assured that under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, steps will be taken to ensure that the mistakes of the past are not repeated.
BJP’s Broader Strategy Against Infiltration
Shah emphasized that the high-power demography mission is not just a local measure but a nationwide initiative.
The mission aims to identify and act against illegal foreigners residing across India. The government believes that infiltration impacts job opportunities, resources, and security in both border and non-border states.
He assured that the Centre will work closely with Assam and other states to strengthen mechanisms for border management, detection, and deportation.
Opposition’s Counterview
While the BJP has consistently advocated strict action against infiltrators, opposition leaders argue that such measures risk targeting minorities and genuine citizens.
Parties have raised concerns about the humanitarian aspect of voter cleansing exercises, claiming that they may lead to wrongful exclusions.
However, Shah dismissed these concerns, saying the government’s focus is on transparency and fairness. He asserted that political narratives should not compromise national security.
Significance for Assam’s Politics
Amit Shah’s remarks come at a time when Assam continues to remain politically sensitive on issues of migration and identity.
The state has witnessed multiple movements, agitations, and protests over infiltration. With assembly elections approaching in the next few years, the BJP appears determined to project itself as the only party committed to protecting Assam’s indigenous population.
Political analysts note that the issue of infiltration has historically shaped electoral outcomes in Assam. Shah’s speech is likely to resonate with large sections of the electorate who view infiltration as a threat to their cultural and economic rights.
Call to Action
The Home Minister concluded his speech by calling upon citizens to support the government’s initiatives.
He said, “We must stand united to protect Assam’s identity and India’s future. The BJP will never compromise on the issue of infiltration. Our mission is clear, and our resolve is strong.”
Shah’s statement has set the stage for an intense political debate, not only in Assam but across the country.
