Naga Students' Federation Calls for Enhanced ILP Enforcement at Critical Entry Points

The Naga Students' Federation (NSF) has issued a strong call for the immediate establishment of Inner Line Permit (ILP) checkpoints at two of Nagaland’s most critical entry routes—Dimapur Airport and Dimapur Railway Station. The organisation argues that the absence of proper ILP monitoring at these locations has created serious vulnerabilities in the state’s immigration oversight system, allowing unchecked entry of non-indigenous individuals and contributing to rising concerns about illegal immigration into Naga territories.

This demand was articulated during a coordination meeting held on November 19 at APO Oking in Kohima, where NSF officials met with leaders from the Angami Public Organization (APO) and its affiliated bodies. NSF President Mteisuding underscored the significance of ILP enforcement, stating that strengthening Inner Line Regulation mechanisms is not just an administrative measure but a historical and moral responsibility. He emphasised that protecting Naga rights, land and future generations requires strict regulation of population inflows, especially in urban and semi-urban areas that serve as primary entry points.

NSN Lotha, Chairman of the Inner Line Regulation Committee (ILRC), presented a detailed report and a set of recommendations to the Nagaland government. His presentation highlighted the urgent need for ILP checkpoints at Dimapur’s airport and railway station, noting that these locations continue to function as large, unregulated gateways for non-indigenous travellers. He warned that without proper checkpoints, the integrity of the ILP system remains severely compromised.

The meeting included active participation from the Angami Women Organization (AWO) and the Angami Students' Union (ASU), both of which extended full support to the NSF’s call for enhanced ILP enforcement. Leaders from these organisations affirmed that the ILP system plays an essential role in safeguarding indigenous identity, culture and demographic stability.

APO President Theja-o Vihienuo informed the gathering that APO has established a Core Committee on ILP dedicated to addressing regulatory shortcomings and ensuring more systematic coordination among stakeholders. While supporting intensified monitoring, he also highlighted the necessity of a holistic approach to population management. Vihienuo stressed that Nagaland must work toward empowering its youth and expanding sustainable livelihood opportunities, which would reduce the state's dependence on migrant labour—a factor that indirectly contributes to increasing non-indigenous influx.

Angami Students' Union President Diezevisie Nakhro commended the NSF for its proactive stance, reaffirming ASU’s commitment to protecting indigenous identity and security. He lauded the unity displayed by various Naga bodies in addressing a matter of critical socio-cultural importance.

The meeting was chaired by K Andrew Yhome of the ILRC, and it concluded with a unanimous decision by all participants to intensify collaboration and coordination aimed at strengthening ILP enforcement across Nagaland. Representatives agreed that a unified front was essential to tackle the growing challenge of illegal immigration and its long-term implications for Naga society.

The NSF’s renewed campaign comes against the backdrop of mounting concerns over what the federation describes as an uncontrolled influx of illegal immigrants into Naga regions. The organisation asserts that without robust ILP monitoring and modern enforcement mechanisms at key entry points, Nagaland risks facing significant demographic, cultural and security challenges in the future.