Northeast Desk, 9th September: The Arunachal Indigenous Tribes Forum (AITF), an influential tribal body in Arunachal Pradesh, has urged the state government to intensify the enforcement of Inner Line Permit (ILP) regulations to combat the growing issue of illegal immigration. The forum expressed serious concerns about the influx of undocumented immigrants, particularly in districts along the inter-state borders, including the capital region.
During a meeting held on Saturday with various community-based organizations (CBOs), AITF discussed the far-reaching consequences of illegal immigration, citing potential threats to the state’s security, demographic balance, and socio-economic and cultural fabric. The forum pointed to recent illegal activities, such as sex rackets, that have involved undocumented immigrants, underscoring the severity of the problem.
The AITF emphasized that Arunachal Pradesh has become a vulnerable target for illegal immigrants, particularly from Bangladesh, who seek refuge due to ongoing national turmoil in their homeland. The forum stressed the need for immediate government action, calling for increased surveillance and strict checking at all entry points along the state’s borders with Assam and other neighboring states.
In addition, the AITF urged authorities to implement rigorous screening of ILP applications and to deploy adequate law enforcement personnel to ensure thorough verification. The forum also appealed to civil society and citizens to actively support the government’s efforts to safeguard the state’s security by cooperating in the crackdown on illegal immigrants.
The AITF views the situation as a critical threat to the existence of the indigenous communities in Arunachal Pradesh, pushing for urgent measures to address the issue on a “war footing.”