Urges stricter checks on illegal immigrants from Bangladesh and Myanmar
Warns against misuse of ILP for extortion
DIMAPUR, JUL 13 (NPN): Raising concerns over the reported movement of illegal immigrants from Bangladesh and Myanmar into the Northeast, the Inner Line Regulation Commission (ILRC) of the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has urged the state government to strengthen enforcement of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system.
In a press release, the commission expressed concern that unchecked illegal immigration could pose serious demographic, socio-economic, cultural and security challenges to indigenous communities.
ILRC called upon the government to enhance surveillance and enforcement at all entry points into the state. It also stressed the need for strict implementation of the ILP system, thorough verification of identity documents, intensified inspections and better coordination among enforcement agencies to prevent unlawful entry, movement and settlement.
The commission also urged deputy commissioners, district administrations, law enforcement agencies, village councils, town councils, colony and ward authorities, and other stakeholders to ensure that no individual resides, works or conducts any activity in Naga areas without complying with the provisions of the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation, 1873, and other applicable laws. At the same time, ILRC warned individuals or groups against extorting money, harassing, intimidating or exploiting non-Naga residents, students, workers or visitors under the guise of enforcing the ILP.
Describing such acts as illegal and unacceptable, the commission said they amounted to a serious abuse of the ILP mechanism and damaged the reputation and integrity of the Naga people.
ILRC maintained that no individual had the authority to collect money, impose penalties or intimidate anyone in the name of the ILP except as provided under law, and warned that anyone found indulging in such activities would face legal action. The commission appealed to the public to report suspected cases of illegal entry or settlement, violations of ILP provisions and incidents of extortion, harassment or illegal collection of money in the name of the ILP to colony chairmen, village councils, district administrations, the police or directly to the ILRC at +91 84138 99928.
The commission also cautioned against spreading rumours, misinformation or targeting any individual or community without credible evidence. It stressed that the protection of Naga interests must always be pursued within the framework of law, responsibility and justice.
Reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding indigenous rights, the ILRC said it would maintain zero tolerance towards both illegal infiltration into the state and the illegal exploitation of the ILP mechanism for personal gain.
The commission has sought the cooperation of the government, civil society organisations and citizens in addressing the issue.