Migration issues and Assam’s changing demographics

Himangshu Ranjan Bhuyan

(himangshur1989@gmail.com) 

Assam, a state located in the northeastern part of India, has been a focal point of  migration throughout its history. Over centuries, various waves of migrants have entered Assam, shaping its demographic structure and influencing its political, social, and economic landscape. These migrations, whether voluntary or forced, legal or illegal, have resulted in complex challenges, especially as the state continues to grapple with the questions of identity, resource distribution, and political representation. The ongoing debates about migration and demographic changes in Assam highlight both the opportunities and difficulties that arise from such movements of people.

The history of migration to Assam dates back centuries, with the earliest waves of migration occurring through various invasions and settlements by people from different regions of South Asia. However, the British colonial period marked a significant turning point in the migration patterns to Assam. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the British administration brought in a large number of migrant labourers from present-day Bangladesh to work in the tea gardens of Assam. This influx, which continued well into the 20th century, transformed the region, particularly in terms of population composition. The Bengali-speaking population increased significantly, and they were integrated into the local economy, especially in agriculture and tea cultivation.

The partition of India in 1947 intensified migration patterns, especially as many Hindus and Muslims moved across the newly created borders. The violence and chaos of partition forced many families to flee East Pakistan (now Bangladesh), with some seeking refuge in Assam. This period saw a substantial increase in the number of people crossing the border, leading to demographic shifts that would have lasting implications. In the years following partition, the migration from East Pakistan continued, both legally and illegally, as people fled political unrest, economic hardships, and religious persecution.

One of the most significant issues arising from this migration was the perceived threat to the cultural and political identity of the indigenous Assamese people. In the 1970s, Assamese student groups, most notably the All Assam Students’ Union (AASU), began to protest the growing number of immigrants, whom they accused of altering the demographic balance of the region and threatening indigenous cultures. These protests eventually led to the Assam Movement (1979-1985), during which the protesters demanded the detection and deportation of illegal immigrants. This movement culminated in the signing of the Assam Accord in 1985, which promised to protect the rights of the indigenous Assamese population and created a cut-off date for identifying illegal immigrants. March 24, 1971, was chosen as the cut-off date, based on the argument that anyone who entered Assam after that date would be considered an illegal migrant.

In recent years, the issue of illegal migration has resurfaced with the updating of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam. The NRC, originally created in 1951, aims to identify legal residents of Assam. The most recent update, released in 2019, excluded nearly two million people from the list, many of whom claimed to be Indian citizens. This sparked widespread controversy, as thousands of individuals, mostly from marginalised communities, found themselves labelled as illegal migrants despite living in Assam for generations. The exclusion of so many people from the NRC raised significant concerns about the potential for mass statelessness, particularly as the state struggled to provide clarity about the status of those left out.

The NRC update also underscored the complex relationship between migration, citizenship, and identity in Assam. The issue is not simply about numbers or documentation; it is about belonging. For many indigenous Assamese, the fear is that unchecked migration will not only dilute their political power but also undermine their cultural heritage. On the other hand, many of the excluded individuals, particularly those from marginalised communities, argue that they have deep historical ties to Assam and should be treated as citizens.

The state government has been under pressure to address the issue of migration and its impact on the state’s demographics. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has raised concerns about the changing demographic profile of Assam, particularly the rise of the Muslim population. In a recent speech, Sarma pointed out that while the Hindu population in Assam had declined to 57%, the Muslim population had grown to 41%. This shift has led to fears among the indigenous Assamese about the potential for political and cultural marginalisation. Sarma’s remarks reflect the ongoing tension surrounding demographic changes and their perceived implications for Assam’s future. These anxieties are compounded by the fact that Assam has long been a politically sensitive region, with competing demands for autonomy and resources from various ethnic and religious groups.

One of the significant challenges in managing migration and demographic change is the distribution of resources. As the population grows, particularly in urban areas like Guwahati, there is increasing pressure on public services, housing, and employment opportunities. Migrants, both legal and illegal, often find themselves competing for limited resources, leading to tensions between communities. Indigenous Assamese people, particularly in rural areas, feel that their livelihoods and access to resources are being undermined by the influx of migrants. This sense of competition fuels resentment and can exacerbate existing social divides.

In response to these concerns, the Assam government has proposed various measures to address migration-related issues. The introduction of the State Domicile Policy aims to prioritize indigenous residents for government jobs and other state benefits, ensuring that the local population does not get sidelined in favour of migrants. Additionally, the government has also focused on improving land governance through Mission Basundhara, which aims to secure indigenous land rights and reduce conflicts over land encroachment.

Another significant challenge associated with migration is the influx of refugees, particularly from Myanmar. Assam has become home to a sizable number of Rohingya refugees, who fled violence and persecution in their home country. The presence of these refugees further complicates the state’s demographic situation, as they are often seen as another group of migrants with uncertain status. Human rights organisations have raised concerns about the treatment of these refugees, who are often confined to detention camps while awaiting resettlement. The plight of the Rohingya highlights the broader humanitarian challenges faced by Assam, as it deals not only with internal migration but also with refugees from neighbouring countries.

Despite the complexities of migration and changing demographics, it is essential to recognise that migration is a global phenomenon. People move for various reasons, including economic opportunity, safety, and better living conditions. While the state of Assam faces unique challenges in managing migration, the issue is not isolated to this region. Migration has the potential to enrich a society, bring new skills, and foster cultural exchange. However, it must be managed effectively to ensure that the rights of all people—both migrants and indigenous communities—are respected and protected.

In conclusion, Assam’s demographic changes, driven by migration, have sparked significant debate over issues of identity, citizenship, and resource distribution. As the state continues to evolve, it must find a way to balance the needs of its diverse population, ensuring that both indigenous and migrant communities can coexist peacefully. At the heart of this issue lies the fundamental question of belonging and the desire for all people to have a stake in the future of Assam. Addressing these concerns through thoughtful policies, dialogue, and respect for human rights will be crucial in navigating the challenges posed by migration and changing demographics in Assam.