Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday announced that the government is prepared to welcome individuals wishing to visit India as tourists, for education, healthcare, or business. However, he emphasized that anyone posing a threat to national security would face serious consequences. These comments came during a Lok Sabha debate on the India Immigration Bill 2025, which has recently passed in the Lower House.
Shah confirmed that the Narendra Modi-led government aims to prevent entry for those with malicious intentions. He stated, “The nation is not a ‘dharamshala’ (shelter home). If someone comes to contribute positively, they are always welcome.” This sentiment underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring that India remains safe and secure.
Key Features of the India Immigration Bill 2025
The India Immigration Bill 2025 aims to strengthen national security while boosting economic growth and enhancing the healthcare and education sectors. Shah highlighted that the proposed legislation will provide up-to-date information about every foreigner visiting India, thus improving tracking and monitoring processes.
In discussing illegal infiltration, Shah specifically addressed the concerns regarding Rohingyas from Myanmar and Bangladeshis. He warned that such illegal immigration poses a significant threat to India’s safety. The government will take strict action against infiltrators if they disrupt peace within the country.
Amit Shah on Illegal Immigration Issues
Shah criticized the Trinamool Congress-led government in West Bengal for its failure to take decisive action against illegal immigration. He pointed out that fencing along the India-Bangladesh border remains incomplete due to the state government’s lack of cooperation. He stated, “Whenever fencing work is attempted, local ruling party workers resort to hooliganism and religious sloganeering.”
He added that the central government has made numerous attempts to resolve these issues, highlighting that illegal immigration primarily occurs in regions lacking proper fencing. Shah assured the public, “We will form the government in Bengal next year, and the remaining area will be fenced.”
Proposed Penalties Under the Immigration Bill
The India Immigration Bill 2025 outlines stringent penalties for violators. Those using forged documents to enter India or overstaying their visas could face up to seven years in prison and fines of up to ₹10 lakh. The bill also mandates hotels and educational institutions to report information about foreigners, ensuring better tracking of individuals in the country.
Currently, immigration matters are governed by four existing laws, including the Passport (Entry into India) Act, 1920. The India Immigration Bill 2025 proposes repealing these outdated regulations to create a streamlined legal framework.
For more detailed updates on this topic, visit The Hans Bharat.
