The Ao Students’ Conference (AKM) has revealed significant administrative lapses in the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system during a surprise inspection conducted on July 24. The inspection aimed to address issues related to illegal immigration into the district.
The inspection revealed that seven individuals were found without the ILP, while over 100 others were found with expired ILP documents. A few individuals who had applied for ILP but had not received it yet were also identified. For them, it was learned that the ILP Nodal Office of the district was not in the station, attending a training in Kohima.
Lanutoshi Aier, president of the apex student body of the Ao Naga community, highlighted several challenges identified during the inspection. He noted that the administration has been issuing ILPs even when valid documents are not provided. “We urge the administration to thoroughly check all documents before issuing ILPs,” Aier said.
Aier also addressed local citizens, urging them to ensure that proper procedures are followed and ILPs are obtained before bringing migrant workers and laborers into the district. He encouraged community members to report any illegal immigrants to the administration and police and sought local cooperation to address the issue. Aier pointed out that many migrant laborers are brought in by “influential people” and appealed to them to comply with the rules as law-abiding citizens.
Aier raised concerns about the role of “brokers” in the ILP renewal process. These intermediaries reportedly charge Rs 500 for renewing ILPs. “We are actively trying to track these brokers,” Aier stated, questioning how such practices can persist while contradicting state regulations. “The brokers and middlemen have turned the ILP process into a business.”
According to AKM, approximately three brokers, including locals, have been identified. “These brokers will be summoned for interrogation,” Aier confirmed. The case will be handed over to the ILP branch for investigation, with findings to be forwarded to the administration and police for further action.
Aier clarified that while it cannot be confirmed whether the apprehended individuals are illegal or legal immigrants, they were detained due to incomplete or questionable documentation. The matter has been referred to the police and administration for a thorough investigation.
Onenpong, Vice President of the Ao Students’ Conference, stated that the seven individuals will be handed over to the administration and police. He urged all Nagaland residents to take the issue seriously and support the integrity of the Nagas for future generations. Additionally, he called on the administration and relevant departments to enhance the efficiency and thoroughness of the ILP process across the state.
The drive to monitor ILP compliance began in Mokokchung in 2007 under the “Survival Mokokchung” initiative, aimed at tracking illegal immigrants within the district. This drive involves data collection on immigrants residing in the district, with surveys conducted every six months.