Dimapur: The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has issued a plea to the Government of Nagaland, urging swift action regarding the enforcement of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system in the state. Expressing grave concerns over the suspension of ILP in Dimapur District (erstwhile), the NSF warned of the escalating threat posed by illegal immigration to Nagaland’s indigenous population.
In an official communication addressed to the Chief Secretary of the Government of Nagaland, the NSF underscored the historical significance of the ILP system, which has served as a vital mechanism for regulating tourist influx and safeguarding against illegal immigration for over a century. However, the NSF lamented the systemic failure in recent years, leading to a dilution of indigenous identity and culture.
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The NSF’s recent ILP verification drive conducted on February 27 and 28, 2024, uncovered alarming findings, with 637 ILP defaulters intercepted and prevented from entering the ILP Zone. Shockingly, a significant number of individuals were found to be unaware of the ILP requirement, signaling a deficiency in government-led awareness campaigns, NSF wrote.
Despite the establishment of a Cabinet Sub-Committee tasked with implementing ILP in Dimapur District (erstwhile), the NSF expressed disappointment over the committee’s failure to submit its report within the prescribed timeframe, heightening concerns regarding the government’s commitment to addressing the issue.
In response to these critical developments, the NSF has issued a set of urgent demands to the government. These demands include the immediate revocation of the ILP suspension order in Dimapur District (erstwhile), the establishment of ILP Monitoring Cells at key entry points, rigorous enforcement of ILP in all district headquarters, and the reinforcement of legal measures against ILP defaulters. Additionally, the NSF has urged for comprehensive awareness campaigns to educate residents about the mandatory ILP requirement.
Emphasizing the imperative nature of these demands in safeguarding the Naga homeland’s identity and culture, the NSF awaits a prompt and affirmative response from the government. The Federation said it remains committed to ensuring the protection of indigenous rights in Nagaland and calls for decisive action to address these pressing concerns without delay.
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