The Dimapur Naga Students’ Union (DNSU), today,  called for a robust and transparent enforcement of the Inner Line Permit (ILP).

In a press release issued on October 26, the Union reiterated its appreciation to the Government of Nagaland for responding to public calls and implementing the ILP Act in Dimapur, Chümoukedima, and Niuland districts following the historic cabinet meeting on September 11, 2024. “It is also noteworthy to point out that Dimapur Commissioner of Police has activated intensive checking of movements of suspected illegal immigrants at various interstate entry points/check gates including railway station. These prompt actions have greatly alleviated the concern of the public,” said the DNSU.

However, it expressed concerned that a robust system for enforcing/implementing and checking of the ILP is yet to be put in place. Therefore the Union has appealed the Government of Nagaland to exhibit transparency in decisions regarding the Inner Line Permit (ILP) implementation.

“The GON issued a notice concerning the ILP, but it failed to provide specific dates or deadlines for outsiders to apply, leaving the public unclear on the process for applications as there are too many suspected illegal immigrants freely roaming around without ILP in and around Dimapur. We feel that the online application alone is not enough and it be should strongly enforced in paper,” expressed the DNSU.

While acknowledging the challenges posed by a lack of manpower and resources for enforcement in Dimapur, the DNSU urged the government to include CSOs in the process. “These organizations are ready and willing to assist. We, therefore, appeal to the GON to establish a district task force that incorporates CSOs from each respective district to support the ILP enforcement,” stated the Union.

With the uncertain future faced by the indigenous population which are at risk of being dominated by outsiders, the Union urged that any act or issue affecting the indigenous people must be discussed  directly, rather than “bowing to the pressure of any external agencies”.

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In this regard, the DNSU called on the GON to establish a dedicated committee or commission to handle the ILP implementation, as there is growing concern that proper consultations with experts, NGOs, and relevant bodies were bypassed. “This lack of transparency risks opening the door to manipulation against the Naga people,” viewed the DNSU.

While the ILP is meant to protect the indigenous Naga population, the Union opined that the current approach appears to focus more on safeguarding outsiders.

“This deviation from the core purpose of the ILP is unacceptable. Successive political parties have included ILP implementation in their election manifestos, only for these promises to be forgotten once they gain power. The DNSU will not allow any political organization, leader, or civil society organization (CSO) to manipulate or undermine the ILP for vested interests. Should such attempts arise, we are prepared to launch a public campaign to oppose and expose those responsible. We have seen similar efforts before when non-Naga leaders met with central leaders in Delhi, which contributed to delays or the shelving of the ILP issue,” stated the Union.

Further, the DNSU has reminded the Government of India (GOI) that ignoring such critical matters only deepens the mistrust between the Nagas and the central government.

“The protections provided under Article 371(A) of the Indian Constitution, introduced in 1962, were not merely symbolic. They are intended to preserve the distinct identity and rights of the Naga people and this must be respected. The time to act is now, and it is essential to fulfill the promises made to the Naga people before further mistrust is sown. The DNSU stands firm in our resolve to protect our land, identity, and future,” affirmed the Union.