RANCHI: In a significant update regarding the demographic shifts in Santhal Pargana, the Central Government has submitted its findings to the Jharkhand High Court, highlighting a sharp decline in the region’s tribal population and an unprecedented increase in the Christian population. The Center’s affidavit, submitted during a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) hearing, revealed that the tribal population in Santhal Pargana has decreased from 44% to 28% over the years. This 16% drop, according to the government, is primarily attributed to migration and religious conversions.
The Central Government’s response also brought attention to the growing Muslim population in the region, which has doubled from 20% to 40% in six districts, with the most significant increases noted in Pakur and Sahebganj. Furthermore, the affidavit reported an astounding rise in the Christian population, which has surged by 6000 times in recent decades.
Petition on Bangladeshi Infiltration
The PIL, filed by Daniel Danish, raises concerns over the alleged infiltration of Bangladeshi nationals into six districts of the Santhal Pargana region. The petitioner argued that this infiltration is leading to significant changes in the population’s religious composition. He also noted a rise in the construction of madrasas and pointed out that Bangladeshi infiltrators are forming marital relations with local tribal communities, accelerating the demographic shift.
During the court hearing, Solicitor General of India Tushar Mehta, representing the Central Government, addressed the concerns raised in the petition. Mehta stated that the situation is alarming, with the decline in the tribal population being a serious issue that warrants immediate attention. He emphasized that the Center is closely monitoring the situation and will file a more comprehensive report after consulting with key agencies such as the Border Security Force (BSF) and the Intelligence Bureau (IB).
Center’s Seriousness on Demographic Shift
The Solicitor General informed the court that the Central Government is committed to addressing the infiltration issue, particularly in border areas that are vulnerable to such population shifts. The government highlighted the risk that this infiltration poses not only to Jharkhand but to neighboring states as well, stressing that immediate action is required to prevent further infiltration and its consequences on the local population.
The Center’s reply also touched on the increasing Christian population in Santhal Pargana, which has reportedly grown at an unprecedented rate of 6000 times. The reasons behind this surge are believed to be linked to religious conversions, though further investigations are needed to determine the exact causes.
Next Steps in Court
The Jharkhand High Court, after hearing the Center’s affidavit and arguments, scheduled the next hearing for September 17. During this hearing, the Central Government is expected to present a more detailed and comprehensive report, addressing concerns about Bangladeshi infiltration and the demographic changes taking place in Santhal Pargana. The court will also examine the impact of these changes on the region’s socio-economic fabric and the long-term implications for the local tribal population.
What the Petition Seeks
The petition filed by Daniel Danish seeks to address the issue of population changes in Santhal Pargana due to Bangladeshi infiltration. It calls for an in-depth investigation into how Bangladeshi nationals are entering the region and influencing the local demographics. The petition also asks the Ministry of Home Affairs to file a detailed report on the situation and take necessary actions to prevent further infiltration and protect the region’s tribal population.
The court’s upcoming decisions on this sensitive matter could have far-reaching implications for Jharkhand and other states affected by similar population shifts.
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