New Delhi, April 3 – India’s Rajya Sabha on Wednesday passed the Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025, a contentious legislation aimed at regulating the entry, stay, and immigration of foreigners, sparking a strong backlash from the Opposition, which labeled it “unconstitutional.”
The Bill, which was approved by Lok Sabha last week, replaces pre-independence immigration laws and grants the central government the authority to deny entry or deport foreigners on grounds of national security, sovereignty, foreign relations, and public health.
Union Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai defended the Bill, stating it was drafted after three years of study and ensures a better tracking system for foreigners. He emphasized that India would continue to welcome visitors for education, tourism, and research, while barring those who intend to conspire against the country.
Rai also accused the Congress and Trinamool Congress (TMC) of previously aiding infiltration and alleged that the West Bengal government had obstructed border fencing efforts. His remarks triggered a walkout by Opposition members.
Congress MP Abhishek Manu Singhvi strongly criticized the Bill, saying it treats all foreigners as potential criminals and hands excessive powers to authorities, effectively turning a constable into a ‘super commissioner’. He also argued that the legislation wrongly assumes foreigners have no constitutional rights in India.
NCP-SP MP Fauzia Khan warned that the Bill could be misused to cancel visas of foreign journalists, academics, and professionals critical of the government. She questioned whether it aimed to protect the nation or suppress dissent.
BJP MP Lahar Singh Siroya defended the Bill, stating it would curb illegal infiltration and prevent the misuse of fake identity documents. Despite the Opposition’s concerns, the Bill is expected to become law after receiving presidential assent, significantly altering India’s immigration framework.
