Naga Students’ Federation Reiterates ILP as Key to Safeguarding Indigenous Rights

The Inner Line Regulation Commission (ILRC) under the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) convened a significant consultative meeting on November 3 at the Naga Council Dimapur Hall, focusing on strengthening the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system and ensuring the continued protection of indigenous Naga rights, culture, and identity. The meeting brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from the Naga Council Dimapur (NCD), GB’s Union (Sardar) Dimapur, Dimapur Urban Council Chairman Forum, and the Dimapur Naga Students’ Union (DNSU).

Chaired by Seve R. Vadeo, Member Secretary of ILRC, the session began with an invocation by Onen Jamir, General Secretary of the GB’s Union (Sardar). In his address, NSF President Mteisuding reaffirmed that strengthening the Inner Line Regulation continues to be one of the Federation’s highest priorities. He emphasized that the ILRC was established with the purpose of reinforcing the implementation of the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation (BEFR), 1873, which serves as the legal framework for the ILP system. The President highlighted that the regulation is central to protecting the land, culture, and inherent rights of the indigenous Naga people against growing external pressures.

Kelhouniezo Yhome, an ILRC member, provided a historical perspective, recalling that since 1975, the NSF has consistently advocated for reserving all state quotas and benefits exclusively for indigenous Nagas. He expressed concern over the increasing influx of outsiders, especially in Dimapur, which he described as a critical area of concern. He urged local organizations like the Naga Council and the GB’s Union to remain vigilant and proactive in monitoring migration and ensuring compliance with ILP norms.

Yhome further identified two major challenges weakening the ILP system: the unchecked entry of illegal migrants and low public awareness about ILP laws. Citing Article 371(A) of the Indian Constitution, he reminded the participants that non-Nagas are constitutionally barred from owning land in Nagaland and called for a united effort among civil organizations, students, and local bodies to preserve this legal safeguard.

Another key contributor, Hukavi T. Yeputhomi, an ILRC member, noted that while the BEFR, 1873 remains a crucial protective mechanism for the Nagas, its implementation has been weakened by poor awareness and the absence of a clearly defined boundary between Nagaland and Assam. He urged the state government and local authorities to expedite the boundary demarcation process and reinforce enforcement mechanisms, especially in border villages where local leaders such as village chairmen and GBs play a critical role in maintaining ILP compliance.

During the open discussion, participants put forward several key recommendations and action points, including:

• Empowering local councils and GBs to enforce ILP rules more effectively in Dimapur.

• Regulating ILP holders who reside in Dimapur beyond the categories of tourists and daily visitors.

• Reclaiming local economic control and ensuring greater Naga ownership in business enterprises.

• Developing a centralized Indigenous Certificate database to prevent fraud and misuse.

• Enhancing and streamlining the ILP online portal to improve transparency and ease of management.

The meeting concluded with a unanimous resolution to strengthen coordination among government departments, civil society groups, and student organizations to raise awareness, enforce the BEFR, and preserve the indigenous identity, land, and heritage of the Naga people. The participants collectively reaffirmed their commitment to uphold the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation, 1873, and the constitutional provisions under Article 371(A), ensuring that Naga land, traditions, and cultural integrity remain protected for future generations.