Naga Students’ Federation seeks autonomous ILP commission

The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has submitted a formal representation to Nagaland Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio, calling for the establishment of an autonomous Nagaland Inner Line Regulation Commission. The federation argues that the current Inner Line Pass (ILP) system suffers from significant enforcement gaps.

Based on an analysis of 67 RTI documents and various government reports, the NSF claims that while the state detects ILP violations, there is a lack of follow-up, such as fines or deportations. For instance, the federation cited a drive in Zunheboto where 78 individuals were found without valid passes, yet no penalties were recorded. Similarly, 146 defaulters were reported in Chümoukedima without subsequent fines.

The NSF is proposing a statutory commission to serve as a single authority for ILP administration. This body would have the power to maintain a central register, frame pass conditions under the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation (BEFR) of 1873, and submit annual reports to the Legislative Assembly. The federation also urged the government to notify a multi-departmental enforcement directorate previously approved by the State Cabinet in May 2025.