Naga Students’ Federation Demands Immediate Implementation of Inner Line Permit

The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has urged the Nagaland state government to implement the Inner Line Permit (ILP) in three districts within 14 days. The demand arises from concerns over cultural dilution and regional unrest linked to the crisis in Bangladesh. The NSF is prepared to take further action if their request is not met.

The Naga Students' Federation (NSF) has issued a 14-day ultimatum to the Nagaland state government, calling for the implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) in Dimapur, Chümoukedima, and Niuland districts. Despite multiple requests, including a final communique on February 28, the NSF claims no decisive action has been taken.

This demand is rooted in what the federation considers a 'grave alarm' stemming from the crisis in Bangladesh, which has caused regional instability and poses a threat to the Naga homeland.

'The demographic shift we are witnessing is not just statistics; it symbolizes the erosion of Naga culture, our way of life, and our future as indigenous people. We will not stand idly by as our homeland becomes a refuge for illegal immigrants,' the NSF stated.

The NSF warns any delay in ILP enforcement will be seen as a governmental failure to protect the Naga people. The organization vows to closely monitor the situation and take necessary actions if the government does not implement the ILP. The ILP, governed by the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation Act of 1873, aims to safeguard Nagaland's indigenous identity. Non-indigenous people must obtain an ILP to enter Nagaland. ILP regulations had not extended to Dimapur district, which was divided into Dimapur, Chumoukedima, and Niuland in 2021. Notably, Dimapur and Niuland districts share a border with Assam.

(With inputs from agencies.)