7,000 migrants registered in Mandi amid rising concerns on outsiders, highest in Balh, lowest in Gohar
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MANDI: With the increasing debate over the presence of migrant laborers in Himachal Pradesh, especially after the Sanjauli mosque dispute, the Mandi district has seen a significant surge in the registration of migrants.
According to official data, 7,009 migrants have registered at various police stations across the district since July 16, 2024. The highest number of 1,255 registration of migrants has been recorded at Balh police station while Gohar police station has seen the lowest 38.
The ongoing debate in Himachal Pradesh over the rising number of migrant labourers, especially from states like Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, has intensified recently, with local groups raising concerns about the socio-economic and security implications. This growing anxiety has resulted in protests by certain Hindu organisations, further pushing authorities to ensure all migrants are registered and verified according to government regulations.
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Registration figures highlight imbalances
As per the data received on October 3, 2024, Balh police station leads in migrant registrations with 1,255 individuals, followed by Sundernagar with 954, Mandi Sadar with 848 and Dharampur with 770. Other areas have also shown substantial numbers, including Sarkaghat (746), Hatli (627), Jogindernagar (583), Dhanotu (496), BSL (225), Padhar (161), Aut (122), Karsog (98), and Janjheli (86). However, Gohar lags significantly, with just 38 registrations, raising concerns about potential gaps in the coverage of the registration drive.
Local officials emphasise that migrant registration is critical for maintaining law and order. Mandi SP Sakshi Verma stated, “All migrants residing in the district must register themselves as per legal requirements. We are verifying the information provided during the registration process with their home districts and any discrepancies will lead to appropriate action.” She added that the verification process is underway, though it may take some time due to coordination with authorities in the migrants’ home states.
Tensions rise amid local concerns
The growing presence of migrant laborers has sparked debates in various parts of Himachal Pradesh, particularly in districts like Mandi, Kangra and Solan. Local communities have raised concerns about the cultural and economic impacts, with some groups calling for stricter enforcement of registration laws and better monitoring of incoming migrants. The mosque dispute that recently rocked the district has only fuelled these concerns, with tensions running high over the role of migrants in local society.
As the state grapples with these challenges, authorities are urging calm while ensuring that all migrants comply with the registration process. Migrants who have not yet registered are being encouraged to visit their nearest police stations promptly to avoid legal complications.
Next steps for authorities
The district administration, along with the police, is intensifying efforts to ensure that the registration drive covers all migrants. Continuous monitoring, cross-verification of documents and collaboration with law enforcement agencies in the migrants’ home states will be key to maintaining security and addressing local concerns.
SP Sakshi Verma reiterated that while the registration process is progressing, any migrant found violating the rules will face legal action. “Verification from their home districts is crucial, and any inconsistencies will be dealt with as per the law,” she said.
