The Naga Students’ Federation – Inner Line Regulation Commission (NSF-ILRC) has issued a strong public statement reaffirming that the Inner Line Permit (ILP) is not merely an administrative tool, but a “critical safeguard” for Nagaland’s demographic integrity and cultural heritage.
Underlining that unchecked entry of outsiders could threaten the socio-economic fabric of the state, the NSF-ILRC warned that without strict enforcement, “the Nagas may soon become minorities in their own homeland.”
The statement comes amid growing concern over possible spillover of displaced individuals from Assam into Nagaland following recent eviction drives targeting alleged illegal settlers in border areas.
“We urge every citizen and official to remain alert at check-posts and entry points. Any stranger arriving without a valid ILP must be reported for proper processing,” the NSF-ILRC said, fully backing the Nagaland government’s July 21 order that directed all Deputy Commissioners to maintain “heightened vigilance” against any potential influx.
Guarantor system under scrutiny
A major focus of the NSF-ILRC statement was the misuse of the ILP guarantor system. As per regulation, any ILP applicant in categories such as traders, laborers, teachers or priests must have a local guarantor. These guarantors are now required to register online and verify applications through OTPs—making them fully accountable for the visitors they sponsor.
The Commission said it has received reports of some individuals allegedly accepting bribes to sponsor illegal immigrants and fake traders.
“Never turn the guarantor process into a source of profit. The sanctity of the ILP system will be defended,” the NSF-ILRC warned.
“We demand that the Government of Nagaland and law enforcement take strict action against violators.
Fines and prosecution for unlawful guarantees must be imposed swiftly.”
The Commission also announced its commitment to collaborate with authorities to identify those abusing the system and encouraged citizens to report any such cases through email or WhatsApp, assuring full confidentiality of informants.
In its comprehensive public appeal, the NSF-ILRC urged village councils, tribal bodies, and landlords to ensure that no non-Naga stays in Nagaland without a valid ILP.
Key points of the Commission’s call to action include: Guarantors should sponsor only people they know and trust; Landlords must verify ILPs of tenants; Village councils and town leaders should run awareness campaigns, especially among youth; The government should set up dedicated ILP monitoring cells in every district; All citizens must report ILP violations or extortion rackets involving fake sponsorship.
The renewed ILP enforcement push comes at a time when concerns over demographic changes and illegal migration remain high across the Northeast. Several civil society groups have raised alarms about the unintended consequences of eviction drives in Assam, which may displace vulnerable communities toward neighboring states like Nagaland.
“Safeguarding Nagaland’s future requires firm action today. Our collective vigilance can prevent misuse of Nagaland’s hospitality and laws,” the NSF-ILRC said, reaffirming its commitment to work with both government authorities and grassroots institutions.