QUES . Discuss the consequences of illegal cross-border migration in India’s northeastern region.
HINTS:
The influx of immigrants creates a crisis of identity among the indigenous populations. Their cultural survival goes in jeopardy, their political control gets weakened and their employment opportunities are undermined by such illegal migration. Some of the consequences of illegal cross-border migration in India’s northeastern region are:
The strain on resources: Illegal migration puts a strain on resources such as water, food, and housing, as well as infrastructure such as roads, hospitals, and schools. This can lead to resentment and conflict between the local population and migrants.
Increased competition for jobs: Illegal migrants often work in the informal sector, which leads to competition for jobs with the local population. This can create economic insecurity for both locals and migrants.
Security concerns: Illegal migration can be a security concern, as it can lead to the spread of extremist ideologies, trafficking of people and drugs, and other criminal activities. It also affects the country’s internal security and can lead to the polarization of society.
Demographic changes: Illegal migration can change the demographic composition of the region, which can lead to cultural and social tensions. It can also impact political representation and power balance.
Environmental impact: Illegal migration can have an environmental impact, as migrants may engage in deforestation and other activities that harm the natural environment.
Movement against ‘outsiders’: The large scale migration into the northeast gave rise to a special kind of problem that pitted the ‘local’ communities against people who were seen as ‘outsiders’ or migrants. These latecomers are seen as encroachers on scarce resources like land and potential competitors to employment opportunities and political power. This issue has taken political and sometimes violent form in many states of the northeast. The Assam movement from 1975 to 1985 is the best example of such movement against ‘outsiders’.
Overall, illegal cross-border migration in India’s northeastern region has several negative consequences. It is important for the government to address this issue through appropriate policies and measures to mitigate these consequences and ensure the region’s long-term stability and development.
