Najmuddin A. Farooqi.
Recently, I found it necessary to contradict a statement made by the Home Minister, Mr. Amit Shah, and to convey my concerns directly to him through an official communication. The latest reports emerging from Bihar have only reaffirmed the validity of my earlier observations and concerns.
In the districts of Araria and Kishanganj—both sharing borders with Nepal and Bangladesh—the demographic data show that nearly 42% of the population in each district is Muslim. This reality underscores the need for sensitivity, accuracy, and restraint while discussing issues related to citizenship, infiltration, and border security.
I would like to reiterate my appeal to the Indian Muslim community: there is no need to panic or react impulsively to every rumor, statement, or claim circulated in the public sphere—whether from ruling party leaders, opposition figures, or individuals expressing misplaced enthusiasm in the name of solidarity. It is crucial that we, as responsible citizens, exercise discernment, analyze facts objectively, and form informed conclusions before making public statements or opinions on such sensitive matters.
In today’s digital era, misinformation and half-truths spread rapidly, particularly through social media platforms and YouTube channels. Much of this content is speculative or deliberately distorted to provoke emotional reactions. I have consistently cautioned against accepting such material at face value, as it often serves political or ideological motives rather than truth or national interest.
In my letter to the Home Minister, I made it clear that I fully support the government’s efforts to strengthen border security and prevent infiltration. National security is, and must remain, non-negotiable. However, I also emphasized that politically charged rhetoric or inflammatory statements issued by those in authority can damage social harmony and undermine public trust. Using security issues as political tools might deliver temporary electoral gains, but they do not serve the long-term interests of the nation.
While it is possible that limited infiltration may have occurred over past decades—particularly in certain border states such as Assam—such instances are likely minimal and cannot justify sweeping generalizations. If infiltration has indeed occurred over a span of 40 to 50 years, it raises legitimate questions about the effectiveness and vigilance of security agencies that operate directly under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Finally, I urge everyone not to be alarmed by the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. No genuine Indian voter will be excluded from the updated rolls, and even in rare cases where discrepancies arise, they will have no bearing on one’s citizenship status. Citizens should cooperate with Booth Level Officers conducting the enumeration or complete the verification process online.
In these times, patience, awareness, and cooperation—not panic—will best serve both the community and the nation.
