Dimapur | The Inner Line Regulation Commission (ILRC) of the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has expressed concern over reports of illegal immigrants from Bangladesh and Myanmar attempting to enter and transit through various parts of the Northeast, warning that unchecked migration could pose significant challenges to indigenous communities.

In a statement issued on Monday, the commission said illegal immigration has the potential to create demographic, socio-economic, cultural and security concerns across the region.

“Such developments, if left unchecked, pose serious demographic, socio-economic, cultural and security challenges to the indigenous people,” the ILRC stated.

The commission urged the Nagaland government to strengthen surveillance and enforcement measures at all entry points into the state. It called for strict implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system, comprehensive verification of identity documents, intensified inspections and closer coordination among enforcement agencies to prevent unlawful entry, movement and settlement.

The ILRC also appealed to deputy commissioners, district administrations, law enforcement agencies, village councils, town councils, colony and ward authorities, as well as other stakeholders, to remain vigilant and ensure compliance with the provisions of the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation, 1873, and other applicable laws.

According to the commission, no individual should be allowed to reside, work or carry out any activity in Naga areas without adhering to the legal requirements governing entry and stay in the state.

At the same time, the ILRC cautioned against the misuse of the ILP system by individuals or groups engaging in extortion, harassment, intimidation or exploitation of non-Naga residents, students, workers and visitors under the pretext of enforcing permit regulations.

The commission described such activities as illegal and a serious misuse of the ILP mechanism, stating that they undermine the credibility and reputation of the Naga community. “These actions are wholly unacceptable and tarnish the goodwill and integrity of the Naga people,” the statement said.

Reiterating that only legally authorised authorities can enforce ILP regulations, the ILRC said no individual or organisation has the right to collect money, impose penalties or intimidate people in the name of the permit system.

The commission warned that anyone found engaging in such activities would be identified and reported to the competent authorities for appropriate legal action.

The ILRC further appealed to citizens to assist in safeguarding the state’s regulatory framework by reporting suspected cases of illegal entry, unauthorised settlement, violations of ILP provisions and incidents of extortion or illegal collection of money carried out in the name of the permit system.

The statement comes amid growing concerns across several northeastern states over illegal immigration and its potential impact on indigenous populations, prompting renewed calls for stricter border management and enforcement of existing regulatory mechanisms.