Border Security Force (BSF) has carried out research in the Jaisalmer district of Rajasthan state, which shares a 471km border with Pakistan, which has revealed interesting demographic changes. As per a report published in Times of India, there is an increased prevalence of radicalisation among Muslims in the nearby villages. The research was done in six villages namely Mohangarh, Nachna, Bahla, Bharewala, Sam, Tanot and the town of Pokhran.
BSF also reported that the Muslim population has resorted to a more Arab inclined culture and way of living. They have nearly departed the Rajasthani culture with an even higher attendance rate of children going to mosques for offering Namaz. Though, BSF asserts that there has been no reported anti-national activity.
According to indices provided by the study, the population growth percentage of Muslims in the district is 22-25%, against 8-10% for other communities. The study, titled, ‘Study of demographic pattern in the border areas of Rajasthan and its security implications’ also reportedly mentions frequent visits by Muslim clergy from outside especially in Pokhran and Mohangarh. They tell that most of the clerics are from Deoband, UP, and responsible for increasing radicalisation and Arab culture influence in the populace.
There has also been an increasing sense of religion in the area and among Hindus and it is being reflected in increasing membership numbers for right-wing organisations, the study says. A greater number of Hindus have been participating in religious activities.
BSF is raising its vigilance to keep in check movements of radical clerics. Though the study says that no concrete evidence of pro-Pakistan sentiments among the Muslims was found, it has noted the presence of a politically influential leader who frequently visits Pakistan for his ‘close business ties’.
Both Hindus and Muslims in the region have stated that they refrain from creating tension during each other’s festivals. Almost all Muslims have reportedly stated that they do not have a soft corner for Pakistan.
Recently, Army General Bipin Rawat, in his speech had discussed the ongoing hybrid warfare unleashed by Pakistan. He is passed also raised concerns about the changing demography of North-East. He pointed towards continuing due to the influx of illegal immigration of Bangladeshis.
