Nagaland: ILRC calls for ILP checks at all entry points

Inner Line Regulation Commission (ILRC) of the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has expressed serious concern over what it called “unconfirmed but credible reports” that certain non-ILP holders were attempting to enter the State by misusing services of the Nagaland State Transport (NST) and other public transport systems.
In a press release, ILRC maintained that these attempts surfaced after All Nagaland Taxi Association (ANTA) directed its units to ensure strict verification of Inner Line Pass (ILP) and to deny service to non-ILP holders.
ILRC cautioned that any attempt to circumvent ILP enforcement through alternate modes of transport constituted a blatant violation of the law and would not be viewed lightly.
In this regard, ILRC has strongly urged the state government, the transport department, NST authorities, district administrations and law-enforcement agencies to immediately ensure that ILP verification was strictly enforced at all entry points, including bus terminals, railway stations and boarding points of public transport services. The commission demanded that any individual, operator or official found facilitating or abetting such violations must be proceeded against as per law.
ILRC reiterated that ILP was a statutory safeguard and not a matter of convenience, adding that selective enforcement or administrative lapses would only defeat its purpose.
Reaffirming its resolve to continue to closely monitor the situation, the commission said it would take appropriate steps if violations persisted.
Meanwhile, appreciating steps taken by ANTA, the commission said ANTA’s firm stand reflected a responsible and cooperative approach towards ensuring the proper and effective implementation of ILP system in Nagaland.
The commission described ANTA’s move as “a positive and timely intervention”, which strengthens ongoing efforts to safeguard the rights, identity and interests of the indigenous people of the State.
Further, ILRC also appreciated all federating units of NSF and other vigilant stakeholders for their consistent monitoring, awareness drives and voluntary enforcement measures undertaken across various districts. The commission reiterated that the successful implementation of ILP depended on collective responsibility and sustained vigilance at all levels.
ILRC has called upon all responsible to remain steadfast in ensuring uniform, strict and uncompromised implementation of the ILP regime across Nagaland.