UKHRUL: The Inner Line Regulation Commission (ILRC) of the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has placed on record its appreciation for the All Nagaland Taxi Association (ANTA) for issuing a firm directive to its units to strictly verify Inner Line Passes (ILP) and deny services to non-ILP holders.
In a statement, the ILRC said ANTA’s decisive action reflects a responsible and cooperative approach towards the effective implementation of the ILP system in Nagaland, in line with the spirit and intent of the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation (BEFR), 1873. The Commission described the move as a timely and positive intervention that strengthens ongoing efforts to safeguard the rights, identity and interests of the indigenous people of the state.
The ILRC also extended its appreciation to all federating units of the NSF and other vigilant stakeholders for their consistent monitoring, awareness campaigns and voluntary enforcement measures carried out across various districts. Reiterating that the success of the ILP regime depends on collective responsibility, the Commission stressed the need for sustained vigilance at all levels.
However, the ILRC expressed serious concern over unconfirmed but credible reports suggesting that some non-ILP holders, following ANTA’s directive, are attempting to enter Nagaland by misusing services of the Nagaland State Transport (NST) and other public transport systems.
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The Commission cautioned that any effort to bypass ILP enforcement through alternative modes of transport constitutes a clear violation of the law and will not be taken lightly.
In this context, the ILRC strongly urged the State Government, the Transport Department, NST authorities, district administrations and law-enforcement agencies to immediately ensure strict ILP verification at all entry points, including bus terminals, railway stations and public transport boarding points. It warned that any individual, operator or official found facilitating or abetting such violations must be proceeded against in accordance with the law.
Reiterating that the Inner Line Pass is a statutory safeguard and not a matter of convenience, the ILRC stated that selective enforcement or administrative lapses would only undermine its purpose. The Commission affirmed that it will continue to closely monitor the situation and take appropriate steps if violations persist.
The ILRC once again commended ANTA and vigilant federating units, calling upon all concerned to remain steadfast in ensuring uniform, strict and uncompromised implementation of the ILP regime across Nagaland.