Nagaland NSF’s ILRC holds consultative meet on Inner Line Regulation

The Inner Line Regulation Commission (ILRC) under the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) convened a consultative meeting at the Naga Council Dimapur (NCD) hall on Monday to deliberate on the effective implementation of the Inner Line Pass (ILP) and the protection of indigenous Naga rights.
The meeting, chaired by ILRC member secretary Seve R. Vadeo, was attended by representatives from NCD, GB’s Union (Sardar), Dimapur Urban Council Chairmen Forum, and Dimapur Naga Students’ Union (DNSU).
NSF president Mteisuding Heraang reaffirmed that the Inner Line Regulation remains one of the federation’s top priorities. He said the ILRC was formed to strengthen enforcement of the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation (BEFR), 1873, and to safeguard the rights and interests of the indigenous Nagas.
ILRC member Kelhouniezo Yhome stressed the importance of preserving Naga identity, culture, and integrity. Recalling NSF’s consistent efforts since 1947, he said the federation had, as early as 1975, recommended that all State quotas and benefits be reserved exclusively for indigenous Nagas.
Highlighting Dimapur as a major area of concern due to the influx of outsiders, he urged the Naga Council and GB’s Union to remain vigilant.
He identified two main challenges under the ILP system- unchecked entry of illegal migrants and lack of public awareness. Citing Article 371(A) of the Constitution, he reminded that non-Nagas were not permitted to own land in Nagaland and called on all civil and student bodies to ensure strict enforcement.
Speaking on the same theme, Hukavi T. Yeputhomi said the BEFR, 1873, was a vital safeguard but its implementation had weakened due to low awareness and absence of a clearly demarcated boundary between Nagaland and Assam.
He urged the government and local authorities to expedite boundary demarcation and strengthen ILP enforcement, particularly in border areas where village chairmen and GBs play a vital role in ensuring proper implementation of the ILP in the state.
During the open discussion, participants highlighted the need to empower local councils and GBs for effective ILP enforcement, regulate ILP holders residing within Dimapur, reclaim local economic control, and establish a centralized Indigenous Certificate database to ensure authenticity. They also suggested streamlining the ILP online portal for better management and transparency.
The house collectively resolved to work closely with government departments and civil society to safeguard indigenous rights, promote awareness, and ensure effective implementation of the Inner Line Regulation across the state. The meeting reaffirmed the shared commitment to protect Naga identity, land, and heritage in line with BEFR, 1873, and constitutional safeguards under Article 371(A).