JHARKHAND HC ORDERS ACTION ON ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS

Why in the news?

The Jharkhand High Court has directed the state to identify and address illegal Bangladeshi immigrants in Santhal Parganas, citing demographic shifts and political concerns about immigration

About the Jharkhand High Court Orders on illegal Immigration:

  • The Jharkhand High Court has ordered the state government to identify and address illegal immigrants from Bangladesh residing in the Santhal Parganas region.
  • A Division Bench of Acting Chief Justice Sujit Narayan Prasad and Justice Arun Kumar Rai issued the directive in response to a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by activist Daniel Danish.
  • The Court emphasised that essential documents, including ration cards, Aadhaar cards, and voter ID cards, should only be issued after thorough verification.
JHARKHAND HC ORDERS ACTION ON ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTSsource:wikimedia
About Santhal Tribe:

  • Third largest scheduled tribe in India (after Gonds and Bhils).
  • Known for its calm and peaceful nature.
  • Originally nomadic, now settled in Chota Nagpur plateau, Santhal Parganas (Bihar), and Odisha.

Geographical Distribution and Occupation:

  • Located :in Jharkhand, Odisha, and West Bengal.
  • Engaged in cultivation, industrial labour, mining, and quarrying.

Religion and Language:

  • Follow an autonomous tribal religion, worship nature at sacred groves.
  • Speak Santhali and use ‘OL Chiki’ script, recognized in the Eighth Schedule.

Art and Culture:

  • Known for Phuta Katcha pattern sarees and dresses.
  • Celebrate festivals and rituals related to agriculture and worship.
  • Houses (‘Olah’) are notable for their large, attractive appearance with multi-colored exterior paintings.

What is Illegal Migration?

Definition:

  • Movement across borders without legal documentation or in violation of immigration laws.

Types of Migrants:

  • Economic migrants seeking better opportunities.
  • Refugees fleeing persecution.
  • Displaced persons escaping conflict or environmental disasters.

Legal Status:

Central concern is determining rights and protections under international law.