The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has today written to the Chief Secretary of Nagaland demanding for the revocation of suspension order of ILP in Dimapur (erstwhile) and stringent implementation of ILP in Nagaland. In an ILP Verification drive conducted by the NSF on February 27 and 28, 637 defaulters were detected and prevented from entering the ILP Zone.

The drive was conducted with the aim of collecting data on the inflow of illegal immigrants and ILP defaulters. “Most shockingly, a significant number of these defaulters were unaware of the ILP requirement, underscoring the government’s failure to create awareness. This negligence has perpetuated the vulnerability of our homeland to external threats,” pointed out the NSF.

Expressing grave concern at the lax enforcement of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system in Nagaland and the subsequent suspension of ILP in Dimapur District, the NSF

Stated, “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,” stated the NSF.

Having engaged in the verification of ILP holders in various districts of the Nagaland state and across the Naga homeland, the NSF aired its observation on the insufficient implementation of the ILP,  allowing an alarming influx of illegal immigrants to emerge as the most significant demographic threat to our indigenous population.

“The ILP is not merely a document; it is a safeguard for the interests of our indigenous inhabitants. Yet, it requires not just a document but a resolute government, led by honest leaders, supported by an honest bureaucracy, and backed by an honest public. The failure to achieve this synergy has allowed the ILP enforcement to falter and illicit activities to thrive,” asserted the NSF.

The apex Student body viewed that the exclusion of Dimapur District (erstwhile) from the ILP regime, as indicated by the suspension order No.CON-3/PAP/65/10 dated June 2, 2023, has created a perilous haven for illegal immigrants. Dimapur, as a melting pot overrun by individuals with questionable identities. This, according to NSF, poses a grave threat not only to Nagaland but also to the North Eastern hills. “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 make it ill-equipped to handle such an overwhelming threat, risking the transformation of our people into refugees in our homeland,” maintained the NSF.

The NSF also expressed disappointment that despite its written representation to the Chief Secretary on October 20, 2023, urging effective ILP implementation in the state, the government has failed to take the necessary actions. ”This communication was a plea for the preservation of our identity and cultural heritage,’ stated the NSF.

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, as per the notification in No.CON-3/PAP/65/10 dated June 2, 2023.

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In this regard, the Naga Students’ Federation submitted the following demands for immediate and decisive action from government:

1. Revocation of Suspension Order: Revoke suspension order No.CON-3/PAP/65/10 dated June 2, 2023, and bring Dimapur (erstwhile i.e., Dimapur, Chumoukedima, Niuland) under the ILP regime within 30 days from the date of this official communication and establish all necessary mechanisms promptly.
2. ILP Monitoring Cells: Establish ILP Monitoring Cells at Dimapur Railway station, Dimapur Airport, and all entry/exit points to Nagaland state to ensure effective enforcement and prevent illegal entries.
3. Stringent Implementation in All District Headquarters: Effectively implement the ILP regime in all District Headquarters comprehensively and without delay, safeguarding the interests of our indigenous population.
4. Improvement of Legal Processes for ILP Defaulters: Enhance the legal process and take decisive action against ILP defaulters to deter future violations and strengthen the ILP enforcement framework.
5. Awareness Campaigns: Launch 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,” appealed the NSF.