Dimapur: The Inner Line Regulation Commission (ILRC) of the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) on Monday expressed grave concern over reports of illegal immigrants from Bangladesh and Myanmar attempting to enter and transit through various parts of the Northeast.
“Such developments, if left unchecked, pose serious demographic, socio-economic, cultural and security challenges to the indigenous people,” the ILRC said in a statement.
Urging the Nagaland government to immediately strengthen surveillance and enforcement across all entry points into the state, it said the strict implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system, thorough verification of identity documents, intensified inspections, and enhanced coordination among all enforcement agencies are essential to prevent unlawful entry, movement and settlement within the state.
The ILRC also urged all DCs, district administrations, law enforcement agencies, village councils, town councils, colony and ward authorities, and all concerned stakeholders to remain vigilant and 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.
It further warned all individuals or groups unlawfully extorting money, harassing, intimidating or exploiting non-Naga residents, students, workers or visitors under the pretext of enforcing the ILP, saying such acts are illegal, wholly unacceptable, and constitute a serious abuse of the ILP mechanism.
“They not only violate the law but also tarnish the reputation, goodwill and integrity of the Naga people as a whole,” it stated.
The ILRC categorically stated that no person has the authority to collect money, impose penalties or intimidate anyone in the name of the ILP except as provided under the law.
It said any person found indulging in such activities will be identified, and the matter will be pursued with the competent authorities for strict legal action.
The commission further appealed to all responsible citizens to report suspected cases of illegal entry or settlement, violations of the ILP provisions, and incidents of extortion, harassment or illegal collection of money in the name of the ILP.
It said such information may be reported to the respective colony chairman, village council, district administration, police, or directly to the ILRC-NSF through its official contact number, 84138 99928.