Dimapur: The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) on Saturday urged the Nagaland government to establish an autonomous Nagaland Inner Line Regulation Commission through legislation, with full powers to formulate rules and regulations for the effective enforcement of the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation (BEFR), 1873, in the state.
In a representation submitted to Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, the federation said the proposed commission should have the autonomy to take decisions necessary to create a robust mechanism for the smooth and balanced implementation of the Inner Line Regulation.
The NSF also demanded that all matters relating to the BEFR, 1873, be placed under the proposed commission to facilitate comprehensive planning and implementation.
The federation said discussions on the issue were still underway at its two-day seminar, which began on Friday. It added that the recommendations emerging from the seminar would be consolidated and submitted to the state government for consideration after the proceedings conclude.
The NSF clarified that its representation to the government was focused solely on its demand for an autonomous Nagaland Inner Line Regulation Commission, which it described as the foundation for implementing other measures related to the Inner Line Regulation.
The federation, along with its Inner Line Regulation Commission, assured the state government of its cooperation in implementing the proposed mechanism.
The NSF also acknowledged the Nagaland government’s continued commitment towards safeguarding the rights and interests of the state’s indigenous population.
The federation has additionally sought an appointment with Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio to discuss the proposal and related concerns.