Arunachal Pradesh is taking a firm stand on illegal encroachments and immigration. Recently, Chief Minister Pema Khandu directed officials to identify and demolish all unauthorized religious structures in the state capital. This move aims to protect indigenous land and maintain demographic balance.
Furthermore, the Chief Minister signaled the rollout of stricter ILP rules in Arunachal through a new digital framework. This decision follows growing concerns from local youth organizations regarding undocumented settlers and illegal constructions in the Itanagar Capital Region (ICR).
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Demolition of Unauthorized Structures in Itanagar
The directive to remove illegal religious sites comes after sustained protests by indigenous groups. Specifically, organizations like the Arunachal Pradesh Indigenous Youth Organisation (APIYO) have been vocal about their concerns. They argue that unauthorized structures often serve as anchors for illegal settlements.
Speaking to reporters, CM Khandu confirmed that he has instructed Deputy Commissioners to act swiftly. He clarified that the law applies to everyone equally. Therefore, any structure built without legal permission—regardless of faith—will face demolition.
Implementing Stricter ILP Rules in Arunachal
To tackle the root cause of illegal entry, the state is modernizing its monitoring systems. The government will soon implement a fully digitized Inner Line Permit (ILP) system. This upgrade represents the most significant change to state entry regulations in recent years.
The new stricter ILP rules in Arunachal will offer several key features:
- Real-Time Tracking: Authorities can now monitor the entry and exit of every visitor in real time.
- Overstay Alerts: The digital system will automatically flag individuals who stay beyond their permit’s validity.
- Employer Accountability: Under the new rules, employers must notify the government when bringing in outside laborers for verification.
- Backend Integration: Technology partners have already completed the backend work, making the system nearly ready for launch.
Consequently, these measures will reduce reliance on manual checks, which were often easy to bypass in the past.
Strengthening the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation (BEFR)
Arunachal Pradesh remains protected by the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation (BEFR) of 1873. However, the Chief Minister believes the current laws need more “teeth.” He announced plans to amend the BEFR to make it even more stringent.
Because the state shares sensitive borders, maintaining a strict vigil is a matter of national security. The government aims to ensure that only documented individuals with valid permits can reside or work within the state. As a result, the police have already started intensive verification drives across various districts.
Community Safety and Legal Procedures
While the government is acting decisively, officials have stressed that all actions will follow due legal process. Notices are being served to owners of unauthorized structures to allow for a fair response. Moreover, the Home Department is working closely with district administrations to ensure that demolition drives do not lead to law and order issues.
By combining the removal of illegal structures with stricter ILP rules in Arunachal, the administration is sending a clear message. The state is committed to protecting the rights, culture, and land of its indigenous tribes.
Conclusion
The latest orders from Chief Minister Pema Khandu mark a turning point for Arunachal Pradesh’s internal security. The dual approach of clearing illegal religious sites and enforcing stricter ILP rules in Arunachal addresses long-standing public grievances.
Ultimately, these reforms will create a more transparent and secure environment for both residents and legitimate visitors. The move toward a digital ILP system proves that technology can be a powerful tool in safeguarding traditional interests.
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