India Passes Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025
The Lok Sabha has passed the Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025, introducing a new legal framework aimed at regulating the entry, stay, and monitoring of foreigners in India. The legislation is positioned as a key step toward strengthening national security and overhauling outdated immigration laws.
“India is Not a Dharamshala,” Says Amit Shah
Union Home Minister Amit Shah, while presenting the bill, declared that India welcomes all those who contribute positively to its development but will not tolerate anyone who poses a threat to national security. In a sharp assertion, he said, “India is not a dharamshala; those who pose a threat will not be allowed entry.” Shah emphasized that the law is necessary to deal with the challenges of illegal infiltration and unauthorized overstay.
Criticism of West Bengal Government
Amit Shah targeted the West Bengal government, accusing it of enabling illegal infiltration from Bangladesh. He claimed that the state’s refusal to allocate land for border fencing has left approximately 450 km of the India-Bangladesh border unfenced. He further alleged that many illegal immigrants are being issued Aadhaar and voter ID cards in areas such as South 24 Parganas, raising serious concerns about demographic manipulation.
Key Provisions of the New Bill
The Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025 introduces a set of stringent provisions:
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Unauthorized Entry: Individuals entering India without valid documentation may face imprisonment of up to five years and fines up to ₹5 lakh.
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Forged Documentation: The use of fake passports or visas could attract up to seven years of imprisonment and fines up to ₹10 lakh.
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Mandatory Reporting: Institutions such as hotels, hospitals, and universities will be required to report foreign nationals staying on their premises to ensure accurate tracking and prevent overstays.
The new bill also seeks to repeal colonial-era laws like the Passport (Entry into India) Act, 1920, and the Foreigners Act, 1946, consolidating immigration-related statutes under one modern framework.
Opposition Raises Concerns
Opposition parties expressed reservations about the bill, particularly over the wide-ranging powers it grants to immigration authorities. Several leaders called for the bill to be sent to a joint parliamentary committee for further scrutiny, warning that unchecked enforcement powers could lead to misuse and harassment without adequate legal safeguards.
Despite opposition objections, the government remains firm on its position, asserting that the legislation is essential for national integrity and demographic stability. The bill is now expected to be tabled in the Rajya Sabha for final approval.
