Assam Accord in Name Only: Numbers Reveal Government Lag

The Assam Assembly on Wednesday revealed a stark truth about the state’s illegal foreigners problem—a truth that is as alarming as it is disappointing.

Crucial details on the identification and deportation of illegal foreigners living in Assam were tabled, exposing the yawning gap between detection and actual removal.

Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) MLA Ramendra Narayan Kalita and Congress MLA Abdur Rahim Ahmed raised starred questions, compelling Assam Accord Implementation Minister Atul Bora to present the numbers—a hard reality check for the government’s claims of strict action.

Identification Vs. Deportation: The Numbers Speak for Themselves

Minister Bora revealed under clause 5.3 of the Assam Accord:

• 33,439 people from 1966–1971 have been declared illegal foreigners as of 30 September 2025.

  • 18,175 names forwarded to the FRRO.

Under Clause 5.8 of the Assam Accord:

• 1,35,901 people entering after 1971 have been identified, but only 30,130 deported, and 467 repatriated formally.

These figures show that while identification has been significant, the pace of deportation remains frustratingly slow, a reality that undermines Assam’s long-term security and the credibility of Accord implementation.

Congress Hits Hard: “Lethargy Endangers Assam’s Demography”

Congress MLA Abdur Rahim Ahmed did not mince words. He pointed out that in the past five years, Assam has:

• Identified 32,207 illegal foreigners,

• But deported only 1,416.

Ahmed described the government’s approach as “lethargic and deeply inadequate,” warning that the slow pace of deportation risks the state’s demographic integrity. He further highlighted the vulnerability of large, open riverine stretches along the India-Bangladesh border, suggesting that the government is sleepwalking while infiltration continues.

The Crux: Policy Vs. Practice

Today’s disclosures reflect a harsh reality: the Assam Accord, meant to protect the state’s identity, is only partially implemented. While the identification numbers are substantial, the actual deportation figures expose a glaring disconnect between policy and practice.

As the Assembly discussion showed, Assam’s illegal foreigners issue remains unresolved. Without urgent action, the state risks turning a decades-old problem into a far bigger crisis. The debate makes one thing clear: talk alone cannot secure Assam—swift, decisive action is needed, and the clock is ticking.

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