Northeast Desk, 12th September: In a significant move to safeguard the identity and existence of indigenous people, the Nagaland government has decided to enforce the Inner Line Permit (ILP) in Dimapur, Chumoukedima, and Niuland districts. This decision was taken at a state cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio.
The ILP, which was previously not applicable to Dimapur district, will now be required for non-indigenous individuals visiting these areas. However, certain categories of non-Naga residents will be exempted from obtaining ILP, including those who settled in Dimapur prior to 1963 and between 1963 and 1979.
The government aims to streamline the ILP issuance process through a digital system, eliminating the need for middlemen. Additionally, specific categories like students, teachers, and businessmen will be granted ILP for extended periods.
This move comes in response to demands from tribal bodies and civil society organizations to restrain the influx of illegal immigrants into the state, particularly in the wake of the political crisis in neighboring Bangladesh.
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