The Inner Line Regulation Commission (ILRC) of the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has expressed serious concern over reports of illegal immigrants from Bangladesh and Myanmar attempting to enter and transit through various parts of the Northeast, warning that unchecked infiltration could pose significant demographic, socio-economic, cultural and security challenges to the indigenous people.
In a statement, the Commission urged the Government to strengthen surveillance and enforcement at all entry points into Nagaland. It called for the strict implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system through rigorous verification of identity documents, intensified inspections and enhanced coordination among all enforcement agencies to prevent unlawful entry, movement and settlement within the State.
The ILRC also appealed to all Deputy Commissioners, district administrations, law enforcement agencies, Village Councils, Town Councils, colony and ward authorities, and other stakeholders to remain vigilant and ensure that no individual resides, works or carries out any activity in Naga areas without complying with the provisions of the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation, 1873, and other applicable laws.
At the same time, the Commission issued a stern warning against individuals or groups allegedly extorting money, harassing, intimidating or exploiting non-Naga residents, students, workers or visitors under the pretext of enforcing the ILP system.
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It said such acts are illegal, constitute a serious misuse of the ILP mechanism and damage the reputation and integrity of the Naga people. The Commission clarified that no individual has the authority to collect money, impose penalties or intimidate anyone in the name of ILP except as provided under law, and warned that those found indulging in such activities would be identified and appropriate legal action pursued through the competent authorities.
The ILRC appealed to citizens to report suspected cases of illegal entry or settlement, violations of ILP provisions, and incidents of extortion or illegal collection of money in the name of ILP to the respective Colony Chairman, Village Council, district administration, police or directly to the ILRC-NSF through its official contact number: +91 84138 99928.
While calling for public vigilance, the Commission cautioned against spreading rumours, misinformation or targeting any individual or community without credible evidence, stressing that the protection of Naga interests must always be pursued within the framework of law, responsibility and justice.
Reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding the rights of the indigenous people, the ILRC said it would maintain zero tolerance towards both illegal infiltration into the State and the misuse of the ILP mechanism for personal gain, adding that those undermining either objective were acting against the interests of the Nagas.
