The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has called for a comprehensive overhaul of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) enforcement system in Nagaland, proposing an autonomous regulatory commission, restoration of checkpoints and a centralised entry-and-exit register.
In a representation submitted to Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on October 1, the federation highlighted gaps in the existing enforcement mechanism and urged the state government to take corrective measures.
The recommendations followed a two-day national seminar on the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation (BEFR), 1873, held in Dimapur on August 28 and 29. The NSF said its proposals were based on discussions during the seminar, government records obtained through the Right to Information (RTI) Act and previous committee reports.
NSF Proposes Autonomous ILP Commission
The NSF has urged the Nagaland government to establish an autonomous Nagaland Inner Line Regulation Commission through legislation.
The proposed commission would serve as a central authority for administering and enforcing the BEFR, 1873, which governs the Inner Line Permit system in the state.
According to the federation, responsibilities are currently divided among different departments and district administrations, creating challenges in coordination and monitoring.
The proposed body would oversee permit conditions, maintain a central database, collect district-level reports and coordinate enforcement activities.
The NSF has also called for the notification of a multi-departmental enforcement directorate approved by the state Cabinet in May 2025.
RTI Records Highlight Enforcement Gaps
The federation’s Inner Line Regulation Commission reviewed 67 documents comprising approximately 1,490 pages obtained through RTI applications from the Home Department and district administrations.
According to its analysis, police checks conducted on April 10 and 11, 2026, detected 644 ILP defaulters. However, the records available to the federation showed only one removal during the period under review.
The NSF cited these figures to highlight what it described as a gap between the detection of violations and subsequent enforcement action.
It has called for a more systematic process to track violations, monitor cases and ensure accountability.
Restoration of Checkpoints and Centralised Register
The NSF has proposed restoring and properly staffing existing ILP checkpoints while establishing additional check gates wherever required.
It has also suggested setting up ILP verification and issuing facilities at Dimapur Airport and Dimapur Railway Station.
Another major recommendation is the creation of a centralised, real-time entry-and-exit register. The proposed system would record permit issuance, validity, entry and departure, helping authorities monitor compliance more effectively.
The federation has also called for better coordination among police, district administrations, land revenue authorities and other departments responsible for implementation.
Stronger Monitoring and Accountability Measures
The NSF has recommended setting up district-level ILP cells, providing specialised training to enforcement personnel and publishing regular enforcement data.
It has also proposed linking ILP validity with trade licences and tenant records, strengthening guarantor accountability and reviewing penalties for violations.
The federation wants the state government to examine existing provisions of the BEFR and consider amendments to increase statutory penalties for non-compliance.
It has sought a written response from the government within 30 days, outlining the status of its recommendations and timelines for implementation.
NSF Clarifies Its Position on Entry into Nagaland
The federation has clarified that its proposals are not intended to prevent visitors from entering Nagaland or restrict entry based on origin, language, religion or community.
It said the recommendations aim to strengthen the administration of the existing legal framework while ensuring that students, patients, transit passengers and genuine traders are not subjected to unnecessary inconvenience.
The NSF has also stated that it is seeking effective government enforcement rather than a direct role for the federation in administering the system.
Government Response Awaited
The representation places the responsibility on the state government to examine the proposed reforms and clarify the implementation status of earlier decisions.
The proposed commission, digital monitoring system, restoration of checkpoints and improved departmental coordination would bring significant changes to the administration of the Inner Line Permit system in Nagaland.
The government’s response to the NSF’s recommendations is awaited.