The Inner Line Regulation Commission of the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF-ILRC) has reiterated the critical importance of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system in preserving Nagaland’s demography and cultural heritage. Issuing a strong public appeal, the Commission called for strict enforcement of ILP rules, responsible conduct by guarantors, and heightened vigilance against any illegal influx into the state.

The NSF-ILRC reminded that under the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation of 1873, any person who is not a Naga and does not fall under the exempted categories must obtain a valid permit to enter the state. The NSF warned that failure to enforce this law could result in Nagas becoming “minorities in their own homeland.”

Reminding all indigenous Nagas that serving as an ILP guarantor is a serious public duty, the NSF-ILRC stated that any ILP applicant in categories such as traders, labourer, teacher or priest must have a local guarantor who sponsors their entry and assures their good conduct. It said in the current online and offline ILP system, every guarantor must register, verify applicants through OTP, and be fully accountable for those they endorse.

“Vouch only for people you know and who have a genuine reason to be here.  Never turn the guarantor process into a source of profit,” the NSF-ILRC stated.

Expressing concerns over the cases of guarantors accepting bribes to sponsor illegal immigrants, fake traders and unverified outsiders, the NSF-ILRC said, “Extorting money or favours in exchange for ILP sponsorship undermines the entire purpose of the ILP.” It demanded that Government of Nagaland and law enforcement take strict action against violators—fines and prosecution for unlawful guarantees.

It assured to work with the authorities to identify and report anyone attempting to bypass ILP rules or charging illegal fees and reiterated that the sanctity of the ILP system would be defended.

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Vigilance over potential influx of illegal immigrants

Highlighting the urgent need for vigilance on Nagaland’s borders, the NSF-ILRC recent large-scale eviction drives in Assam target alleged illegal settlers in areas adjacent to Nagaland. It warned that displaced people may attempt to cross into Nagaland.

Citing the Government’s order on July 21, which directed Deputy Commissioners to maintain “heightened vigilance” to prevent any “potential influx” of illegal immigrants, the NSF-ILRC said it is crucial for maintaining law and order and for safeguarding the “demographic integrity” of the state.

Supporting the concerns of other civil society groups in this matter, the NSF urged every citizen and official to remain alert at check-posts and entry points and any stranger arriving without a valid ILP must be reported for proper processing.

Call to action

1. Guarantors:We appeal to all Naga guarantors to act honorably.  Only endorse applicants with valid reasons and valid ILPs.  Refuse any attempt to use your guarantor status as a business – such extortion is a crime against our community.
2. Communities:Village councils, town leaders and tribal bodies should conduct awareness drives as NSF-ILRC has urged in the past.  Inform everyone – especially youth and student’s communities – about ILP rules and the consequences of non-compliance.  Encourage locals to question or report anyone soliciting payment for ILP sponsorship.
3. Landlords:Verify your tenants.  Make it mandatory in your colony or village that any non-Naga must present a valid ILP.
4. Government:We urge the government to strengthen border checkpoints and ensure that any ILP violation is immediately acted upon.  Appoint a dedicated ILP monitoring cell in every district, as previously proposed by NSF, to enforce the rules effectively.
5. All Citizens:Stay vigilant.  If you encounter non-Nagas without ILPs, or any extortion racket around ILPs, immediately inform the nearest police or district office. You may also report any violations or provide documentary evidence to: Email: nsf@gmail.com or WhatsApp: 8413899928. All reports will be kept strictly confidential and identities will not be disclosed under any circumstances.