Controversial Immigration and Foreigners Bill Sparks Debate

The Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025, introduced in the Lok Sabha, is under scrutiny as opposition MPs raise concerns over arbitrary powers granted to immigration authorities. Calls for sending the bill to a joint parliamentary committee for detailed examination have intensified to ensure safeguarding legal standards for immigration processes.

The Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025, currently under debate in the Lok Sabha, has drawn criticism from opposition MPs who argue that certain provisions grant undue powers to immigration authorities. The opposition is urging for a thorough review by a joint parliamentary committee.

Congress MP Manish Tewari criticized the bill's provision that allows immigration officers to make final and binding decisions without an avenue for appeal. He compared it to systems in the US and Canada, which have immigration judges providing a channel for appeal, advocating for similar safeguards in India.

Concerns also extend to undefined terms like 'damaged' passports, empowering officers to seize travel documents arbitrarily, and powers allowing head constables to arrest foreigners merely on suspicion. The opposition insists on a detailed clause-by-clause examination to refine the proposed law before any potential enactment.

(With inputs from agencies.)