Chumoukedima, Nagaland, March 1 (HBTV): The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has demanded that the government of Nagaland set up the Inner Line Permit (ILP) mechanism for Dimapur, the commercial center of Nagaland, within 30 days, among other demands. The NSF issued to the media a copy of a representation addressed to the chief secretary demanding revocation of the suspension order for ILP in Dimapur.
The NSF has demanded revocation of the suspension order dated June 2, 2023; and to bring Dimapur (erstwhile i.e., Dimapur, Chumoukedima, Niuland) under the ILP regime within 30 days from the date of this communication and to establish all necessary mechanisms promptly.
The NSF expressed deep concern at the lax enforcement of the ILP system in Nagaland and the subsequent suspension of the ILP in Dimapur in June, 2023.
‘The ILP, a testament to its 150-year existence, has been instrumental in regulating tourist flow and controlling the entry of illegal immigrants. Unfortunately, over the past several decades successive governments have struggled to execute the ILP diligently, leading to a surge in illicit activities that endanger our unique identity and culture,’ the NSF reminded the Nagaland government.
‘The ILP is not merely a document — it is a safeguard for the interests of our indigenous inhabitants. Yet, it requires a resolute government led by honest leaders supported by a honest bureaucracy, and backed by honest public. The failure to achieve this synergy has allowed the ILP enforcement to falter and illicit activities to thrive,’ the federation stated.
Stating that the suspension order has created a haven for illegal immigrants and Dimapur, the organization pointed to Dimapur being overrun by individuals with questionable identities. This poses a grave threat not only to Nagaland but also to the north eastern hills, the NSF stated.
‘Our identity, culture, and very survival are at stake with the potential for societal destruction looming large. The limited size and population of the Naga homeland makes it ill-equipped to handle such an overwhelming threat, risking the transformation of our people into refugees in our homeland.’
Even with the formation of a Cabinet sub-committee on the implementation of ILP in the areas of Dimapur (erstwhile) district, the committee has failed to submit its report within the stipulated three months, the NSF stated.
The NSF has listed out a number of demands to the government for immediate and decisive action from the authorities: Revocation of the suspension order dated June 2, 2023; bring Dimapur (erstwhile i.e., Dimapur, Chumoukedima, Niuland) under the ILP regime within 30 days from the date of this communication and to establish all necessary mechanisms promptly; establish ILP monitoring cells at the Dimapur Railway station, Dimapur Airport, and all entry/exit points in Nagaland state to ensure effective enforcement and prevent illegal entries.
The organization also demanded stringent implementation in all district headquarters. Effectively implement the ILP regime in all district headquarters comprehensively and without delay, it stated. It called for safeguarding the interests of the indigenous population.
The NSF also demanded improvement of legal processes for lLP defaulters. Enhance the legal process and take decisive action against ILP defaulters to deter future violations and strengthen the 112 enforcement framework, the NSF’s representation stated.
Further, the NSF demanded extensive awareness campaigns to educate all communities residing in Nagaland about the mandatory requirement of the ILP for entry into the state.
'These demands are not just a plea but a fervent call to protect our identity, culture, and the very essence of the Naga homeland. We firmly believe that with your esteemed office's intervention and the commitment of the government, we can overcome this looming threat and secure the future of our people,’ the NSF stated.
The NSF looks forward to a prompt and positive response to these urgent concerns, the organization stated.