The issue of illegal foreigners has always been a sensitive one in Assam. Recently, Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya made a significant revelation: approximately 1.7 lakh illegal foreign nationals have been identified in the state, but only 467 have been deported to their countries of origin. This number clearly reflects the ground realities and challenges faced by Assam.
The Governor stated that approximately 4.35 lakh suspected citizenship cases have been referred to the Foreigners Tribunals so far, of which 3.5 lakh cases have been disposed of. In this process, approximately 1.7 lakh people have been declared illegal foreigners, a substantial number.
To secure the Assam-Bangladesh border, 14 border outposts and 14 patrol posts are operational, working in coordination with the BSF and local police. Despite this, the problem of illegal migration persists.
The Governor also mentioned that the crime rate in the state has improved significantly. The crime rate per lakh population was 379 in 2021, which has decreased to only 121.6 in 2025. Crimes against women have also decreased considerably during this period.
Work is also underway on prison reforms in Assam. A high-security prison for 150 inmates is being constructed in Hajo, Kamrup district, under the initiative of the Union Home Ministry, and is expected to be completed soon.
The Governor also described the state’s financial situation as positive, stating that Assam has taken several steps towards responsible financial management and inclusive development over the past five years.
These figures are important indicators of Assam’s current security and development, but resolving the issue of illegal foreigners remains a significant challenge.
