Centre steps up focus on demographic changes along Pakistan, Bangladesh borders

Published 15 June 2026 · india

The Centre is preparing to take a closer look at rapidly changing demographic patterns in several border districts and urban centres across the country. The

The Centre is preparing to take a closer look at rapidly changing demographic patterns in several border districts and urban centres across the country. The move follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s remarks from the Red Fort on August 15, 2025, when he expressed concern over what he described as “unnatural demographic changes” in certain regions. The government has since identified the issue as a matter linked not only to population trends but also to national security, social balance and administrative planning. To examine the issue in detail, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) constituted a high-level committee on May 26, 2026, under the chairmanship of Justice Prakash Prabhakar Naolekar. Read Full Story According to sources, the committee will study demographic changes in areas along the India-Pakistan and India-Bangladesh borders as well as several urban centres. The panel is expected to submit its findings to the Home Ministry within one year. AMIT SHAH REVIEWS PROGRESS OF THE COMMITTEE Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah recently chaired a review meeting with senior Home Ministry officials to assess the progress of the committee and discuss arrangements required for its functioning. During the meeting, officials reviewed logistical support, administrative assistance and other resources needed for the committee’s work. The Home Ministry said the panel has already held its first meeting and finalised a detailed agenda. In the coming months, members are expected to undertake field visits across multiple regions before preparing a comprehensive report for the government.

WHAT IS DEMOGRAPHIC CHANGE AND WHAT WILL THE COMMITTEE STUDY? Demographic change refers to shifts in the population structure of a region. Such changes can occur naturally due to factors such as birth rates, mortality, employment opportunities, migration and economic activity. However, the government’s focus is on what it terms “unnatural demographic changes” that may arise from illegal infiltration, unchecked migration or other unusual factors that significantly alter the population balance of a region. Officials believe such changes can have implications for social and cultural structures, resource allocation, governance and security. The committee will examine these concerns and assess whether reported changes in population patterns are supported by factual evidence. BORDER AREAS TO REMAIN KEY FOCUS A major focus of the committee’s work will be districts located along the India-Bangladesh and India-Pakistan borders. Over the years, concerns have periodically been raised by security agencies and political groups regarding illegal infiltration and changes in population patterns in some border regions. States such as Assam, West Bengal and parts of the Northeast have frequently witnessed debates on demographic trends. Sources said the committee will interact with local administrations, security agencies, elected representatives and civil society groups during field visits. It is also expected to analyse Census data, voter rolls, migration records and other government databases to assess the situation. METROPOLITAN AND INDUSTRIAL CITIES ALSO UNDER SCANNER The committee’s mandate extends beyond border districts. According to the Home Ministry, major metropolitan centres and industrial hubs will also be examined as part of the study.