Demography along Pakistan border changing: BSF flags concerns

Intelligence wing of the Border Security Force (BSF) surveyed six villages – Mohangarh, Nachna, Bahla, Bharewala, Sam, Tanot and the town of Pokhran in the border region of Jaisalmer district and alerted the  government of an ‘unexpected’ rise in Muslim population in the border areas in recent years.

A BSF study that examined demographic changes has found a departure from traditional Rajasthani culture in terms of personal grooming such as hairstyles and dress. The study also found a high 22-25 per cent growth rate in Muslim population as compared to 8-10 per cent of other communities. There is a rise in religiosity with higher attendance of children at mosques for more frequent namaz.

The study shows no evidence of any “anti-national” activity and there is no discernible soft corner for Pakistan among the minority population. Hindus and Muslims have also admitted to a shrinkage in dialogue between the communities.

‘Demography along Pakistan border changing’: BSF flags concerns

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Asked about the report, BSF chief Rajnikant Mishra said that the force “regularly prepares these reports based on demographic, social, economic changes in border areas and shares it with sister agencies”.

The BSF study also names a personage of Jaisalmer (name withheld), who often travels to Pakistan, has business interests there and has emerged as an influential political influence. “(The) involvement of Muslim population in anti-establishment activities and surfacing of anti-India sentiments on his call can’t be ruled out…”

BSF has recommended a check on activities of clerics, a task force comprising police, administration, intelligence and BSF, to assess any rise in the communal temperature.