IMPHAL: Nine individuals have been detained in connection with a major scam involving the issuance of counterfeit Inner Line Permit (ILP) cards in Manipur.

This was informed by Manipur chief minister while interacting with the media on Friday (July 19) evening.

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The Manipur chief minister stated that the ILP system plays a critical role in protecting the indigenous population of Manipur.

“The Inner Line Permit System was a gift from the Government of India to protect the indigenous people of Manipur. It is unfortunate that some people are misusing the system by issuing fake cards,” he stated.

Acting on credible intelligence, state authorities conducted raids across five locations, leading to the seizure of approximately 3500 fake ILP labor permits.

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These operations targeted a computer center in Namdulong, a mobile repair shop in Kakulong, a mobile shop in Thangal Bazar, a computer center near the Babupara DC Bungalow, and a reception counter at a laboratory center on RIMS road.

The investigation revealed that unauthorized individuals were managing sensitive tasks typically handled by District Commissioners and Labour Commissioners.

“It has come to light that unauthorized personnel were also handling these sensitive matters,” the Manipur CM stated.

The discovery of these fake ILP cards has raised suspicions of involvement by high-ranking officials and business figures.

Consequently, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been established to conduct a thorough probe.

In response to the fraud, alerts have been issued to all police stations to apprehend holders of the counterfeit cards.

The Manipur chief minister also appealed to the perpetrators to surrender voluntarily, offering them a chance to avoid severe legal repercussions.

To prevent future breaches, the CM announced plans to enhance the ILP implementation process and enforce stricter measures at all ILP counters in Manipur.