ITANAGAR : In a bid to enhance the security and cultural integrity of Arunachal Pradesh, chief minister Pema Khandu on Monday initiated a series of efforts aimed at fortifying the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system.

The ILP, a regulation requiring non-Arunachalee citizens to obtain official permission before entering the state, is seen as crucial for protecting the indigenous population. During a high-level meeting that included senior government officials and leaders from the All Arunachal Pradesh Students’ Union (AAPSU), Khandu underscored the necessity of tightening the ILP system.

The Chief Minister highlighted its role in preventing the illegal entry and extended stays of non-local migrants, which pose a threat to the cultural and demographic fabric of the state. A statement from the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) emphasized the government’s commitment to safeguarding the rights and traditions of Arunachal Pradesh’s indigenous tribes by curbing external influences.

Khandu noted that while the government has already begun strengthening the ILP framework, collaboration with key stakeholders, particularly the AAPSU, is vital for the system’s effectiveness. AAPSU, represented by its president Dozi Tana Tara, presented a comprehensive survey and a set of recommendations aimed at improving the ILP system.

Their presentation, delivered via PowerPoint, highlighted key areas for reform, including enhanced monitoring and verification processes, especially in the 12 districts of Arunachal Pradesh that share a border with Assam.

The students’ union also urged the state government to suspend the electronic ILP (e-ILP) system, citing concerns over the ongoing crisis in neighboring Bangladesh, which has increased the potential for unchecked cross-border movement.

They argued that the current e-ILP system lacks sufficient oversight, making it vulnerable to misuse. To address these concerns, AAPSU proposed centralizing the issuance of ILPs under a single department to improve oversight and streamline record-keeping.

They also advocated for the digitization of ILP records to maintain up-to-date information on permits and traveler movements.  Furthermore, they called for the creation of a dedicated department specifically tasked with managing and overseeing the ILP system to ensure consistent and efficient processing.

The Inner Line Permit is a travel document required for Indian citizens wishing to visit protected or restricted areas, such as Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and Mizoram. Established under the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation (BEFR) Act of 1873, the ILP aims to protect the rights of indigenous communities by regulating the influx of outsiders into these regions.

As the Arunachal Pradesh government considers these proposals, the focus remains on preserving the unique cultural identity of Arunachal Pradesh while ensuring that the ILP system effectively serves its purpose in the modern context.