The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) convened a high-level coordination meeting with the Lotha Hoho and its frontal organisations on 29 November 2025 at the Lotha Hoho Headquarters, Wokha, to discuss strengthening the Inner Line Regulations (ILR) and related concerns.
The meeting, chaired by Eno Vimeyiekho Vitso, Vice President (NSF), focused on pressing issues relating to immigration control, safeguarding indigenous identity, and the socio-economic future of Naga youths. Distinguished leaders such as Eno Mutsikhoyo Yhobu, Secretary General, NESO and former President (NSF), and Eno Ninoto Awomi, former President (NSF), also joined the deliberation, adding valuable insight and experience.
Delivering the keynote address, Eno Mteisuding Harang, President (NSF), underscored the escalating threat posed by unchecked illegal immigration, warning that continued negligence would endanger opportunities for future Naga generations. He expressed serious concern over the random issuance of ILP, PRC, and trade licences to non-locals, calling it a harmful trend that weakens indigenous rights. He further encouraged youths to explore business and entrepreneurship in light of limited government job absorption and reminded the federation of its obligation to defend Naga identity, culture, and traditions.
Eno Sechumo NSN Lotha, Chairman, ILRC, reaffirmed the need for collective action to safeguard the rights of indigenous citizens. Giving a detailed presentation on ILR sensitization, he reiterated the urgent need for the state government to take serious cognizance of the recommendations submitted by the NSF. Some of the recommendations include establishing ILP checkpoints at Dimapur Airport and Dimapur Railway Station, which remain major entry points for non-indigenous individuals entering the state.
Eno Er. Mhondamo Ovung, President, Lotha Hoho, stressed that poor enforcement and inadequate monitoring have intensified illegal immigration. He urged authorities to reflect on why outsiders continue to enter the state and questioned whether the local workforce is fully utilizing opportunities in trade and labour. He also cautioned that railway connectivity may accelerate immigrant inflow if proper mechanisms are not put in place.
Lotha Eloe Hoho President, Enoli Thungbeni Ngullie, pledged full support to the NSF and ILRC movement, emphasizing that women’s participation is crucial for long-term community awareness. She urged the district administration to collaborate closely with civil society and proposed a dedicated sensitization programme for women.
A serious concern was highlighted by Lotha Youth Hoho President, Eno Limhathung Yanthan, who revealed that nearly 70–80% of business establishments in Wokha are operated by non-locals. Yanthan expressed unwavering support for the NSF-led campaign and warned against the misuse of “local guarantors,” which has now become a commercial practice and poses severe risks to Naga society.
President of the Lotha Students’ Union (LSU), Eno Lirhonthung Kithan, assured full cooperation in enforcement activities and reiterated the union’s commitment to assisting the federation. The LSU leaders pointed out that non-locals often enter Nagaland without prior ILP due to the absence of border checkpoints, later obtaining ILP from district offices—an unsafe and improper practice. They recommended establishing ILP counters at all major entry points and noted that some outsiders acquire ILP passes in bulk to exploit the system.
The LSU reported that during recent ILP checking, several individuals were turned back for lacking valid ILP, yet the same persons later re-entered through Dimapur with illegally obtained passes, revealing serious gaps in enforcement and coordination.
In conclusion, all organizations reaffirmed their shared responsibility to protect Naga identity and ensure a secure future for the younger generation. The meeting resolved to intensify cooperation, pursue stronger enforcement mechanisms, and uphold the dignity, culture, and rights of the Naga people.