The renewed concern over illegal immigration into Nagaland, particularly after Assam’s recent eviction drives, is both valid and urgent. The concern raised by the Ao Kaketshir Mungdang (AKM) is not misplaced.
The influx of undocumented individuals, if left unmonitored, poses serious risks to the socio-cultural fabric and demographic balance of indigenous communities in Nagaland. Similarly, various other organizations have raised the flag, calling for stricter checks and community coordination.
These voices reflect a growing anxiety among indigenous communities: that demographic imbalance and cultural erosion are no longer distant threats, but immediate dangers.
The state government has responded with resolve. Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio chaired a high-level review meeting in Kohima, issuing clear directives for round-the-clock surveillance and the deployment of additional police forces in vulnerable border regions.
This, along with Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton’s field visits to vulnerable areas is proof enough of the seriousness of the issue. Yet, this crisis cannot be addressed by government action alone.
Illegal immigration is not just a law-and-order issue; it is a multi-dimensional challenge involving legal, administrative, and humanitarian considerations. As Patton noted, sealing roads is not enough; there are countless unofficial routes, and only a community-driven response can plug those gaps.
Village councils and local bodies must remain vigilant in maintaining updated registers of Inner Line Permit (ILP) holders and report unidentified individuals without delay.
The government must, in turn, ensure robust systems for verification, deportation where necessary, and legal redress to avoid misuse of power or communal profiling.
Here, the NSF’s proposal for implementation of a mandatory landlord-tenant registration system to strengthen the Inner Line Pass (ILP) mechanism may be considered.
The involvement of civil society, youth groups, and GBs must be structured, lawful, and in partnership with law enforcement.
AKM’s “Survival Mokokchung” campaign is a reminder that the real battle is one of identity, security, and future stability.
However, in our collective effort to safeguard Nagaland, we must not descend into fear-mongering or xenophobia. The goal is not to create enemies, but to protect our people through clarity and coordination. The danger of demographic erosion is real, but so is the risk of overreaction.
The future of our people depends not only on how well we protect our borders, but on how responsibly we manage the crisis. The threat is real. But so is the opportunity to unite across communities, strengthen our institutions, and act with both firmness and fairness. To safeguard our land and identity, Nagaland must act firmly. And wisely.
