The Dimapur Naga Students Union (DNSU) has called for transparency from the Nagaland government regarding the inner line permit (ILP) process. In a press statement, the DNSU noted that despite a recent notice issued by the state government, there were no specific dates or deadlines provided for outsiders to apply, leaving the public unclear on the application procedures.
Expressing concern over the reliance on online applications alone, the union emphasized the need for stronger enforcement of paper applications. It highlighted the serious lack of a robust enforcement system for the ILP in the Dimapur, Chümoukedima, and Niuland districts.
While acknowledging the state government’s commendable steps, including implementing the ILP following the historic cabinet meeting on September 11 and conducting intensive checks on suspected illegal immigrants at various interstate entry points and check gates, including Dimapur railway station, the DNSU insisted that more action is required.
The union urged the Nagaland government to involve civil society organizations (CSOs) in the ILP enforcement process, proposing the establishment of a district task force that incorporates CSOs from each district to support effective ILP implementation.
Voicing deep concern about their future and the potential influence of outsiders on their community, the DNSU called for direct discussions on issues affecting indigenous people rather than yielding to external pressures. It also urged the state government to form a dedicated committee or commission to oversee ILP implementation, citing fears that consultations with experts, NGOs, and relevant bodies have been overlooked, risking manipulation against the Naga people.
Emphasizing that the ILP is designed to protect the indigenous Naga people, the DNSU criticized the current approach for prioritizing the interests of outsiders. The union pointed out that political parties in the past had included ILP implementation in their election manifestos, only to ignore it once in power.