Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday warned that illegal infiltration continues to pose a grave threat to the security and demographic stability of the North East, stressing the urgent need for stringent measures along the Indo-Bangladesh border.

Several North Eastern states share extensive international borders with Bangladesh—Assam (262 km), Meghalaya (443 km), Tripura (856 km), and Mizoram (318 km)—making the region particularly vulnerable to cross-border infiltration.

Speaking to the media after offering prayers at the revered Mata Tripura Sundari Temple in Udaipur, Tripura’s Gomati district, Sarma said the issue extends far beyond Assam and has become a serious concern for the entire North East.

“In Assam, post-Census figures indicate that the minority population may approach 40 percent. This creates a highly complex situation. The North East today is at a critical juncture, with Assam bearing the brunt of the challenge. To safeguard Assam and the region as a whole, constant vigilance is essential,” he said.

The Chief Minister reiterated that infiltration from Bangladesh remains one of the most significant threats to regional security.

“Assam and Tripura are taking decisive action by identifying and detaining infiltrators. Unfortunately, West Bengal is not taking similar steps. If Bengal fails to act in the national interest, the repercussions will not be limited to one state but will affect the entire country,” Sarma asserted.

Emphasizing the need for a long-term strategy, Sarma said sustained efforts to secure the Indo-Bangladesh border are critical for ensuring peace and stability in the North East.

“To protect the future of the North East, it is vital that our government remains in power in Assam, Tripura, and West Bengal,” he added.

Addressing concerns over regional political implications, Sarma clarified that recent developments in Bangladesh would not influence the upcoming Assam Assembly elections, though public sentiment remains strong.

“The situation in Bangladesh will not impact the Assam elections. However, people are deeply anguished and angered by reports of atrocities against Hindus there,” he said.