Kohima, 20 October (MTNews): Highlighting the critical need to preserve the state’s unique identity, culture, and indigenous population by curbing the growing threat of illegal immigration, the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has called for immediate and stringent measures to enforce the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system in Dimapur District and beyond.
In a memorandum submitted to the Chief Secretary of the Government of Nagaland on 20 October 2023, the NSF said that the ILP, which has been an integral part of Naga peoples’ history for the past 150 years, has been instrumental in regulating the flow of tourists and preventing the influx of illegal immigrants. However, the NSF has expressed deep concern over the recent lapses in ILP enforcement, allowing illicit activities to flourish, and endangering the state’s indigenous population, unique identity, and culture.
The NSF said that, along with its Federating Units, it has been actively involved in the verification of ILP holders in various districts for several years. “Our consistent efforts have revealed the inadequate enforcement of the ILP in the state, leading to the alarming growth of illegal immigrants, which now stands as the most substantial demographic threat to our indigenous population,” the NSF said.
The Federation has particularly emphasized the concerning situation in Dimapur, citing the need for immediate attention.
“In particular, the implementation of the ILP regime in Dimapur, coupled with the lack of stringent enforcement of the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation (BERF) 1873 has created a fertile ground for illegal immigrants,” it said.
It further said that the presence of a substantial population with questionable identities in Dimapur is undeniable, as they lack proper identification documents.
Highlighting the dire consequences of allowing Dimapur to be overrun by such individuals, the NSF stressed that this not only threatens Dimapur but also poses a significant risk to the rest of Nagaland and the North Eastern hills. It said that the very survival of Nagaland’s identity and culture is at stake, which could lead to “societal destruction.”
“Given Nagaland’s limited size and population, we are ill-equipped to handle such a formidable threat, potentially turning our own people into refugees in our homeland,” the NSF added.
In light of these concerns, the NSF has made the following urgent requests to the government:
Establishment of ILP Cell at Dimapur Railway Station and Dimapur Airport:
The NSF has called for the immediate establishment of ILP Cells at Dimapur Railway Station and Dimapur Airport. It said that these are the primary entry points to Nagaland and must be equipped to streamline the inflow of individuals and prevent illegal immigrants from gaining access to the state. It also recommended the establishment of ILP monitoring cells at all entry and exit points to ensure a fool proof mechanism.
Stringent Implementation of ILP System in All District Headquarters:
The NSF has urged the government to comprehensively and promptly enforce the ILP system in all district headquarters. “Furthermore, it is crucial to ensure the strict enforcement of the mechanism, based on our previous propositions and sincere representations. The government must exhibit the necessary political will to fulfil this commitment,” it said.
Improvement of Legal Process/Action for ILP Defaulters:
The NSF also proposed enhancing the legal process and actions taken against ILP defaulters, making the consequences for violating the ILP system more stringent to deter potential offenders.
The NSF further informed the Chief Secretary that its Federating Units have been directed to actively monitor and verify any matters related to this issue. “The Federation is committed to conducting checks and verifications at any time, and in the event that defaulters are detected, immediate action will be taken,” it added.
In their memorandum, the NSF expressed confidence in the visionary leadership of the government and its ability to safeguard the future of Nagaland and protect the interests of its indigenous inhabitants.
The NSF also said that it stands ready to collaborate with the government to ensure the successful implementation of the ILP regime.
“We eagerly anticipate witnessing the positive impact that the enforcement of the ILP in Dimapur District and beyond will have on our beloved state,” the NSF concluded.