JD(U)  calls for single ILP cut-off date  in Nagaland

Guwahati: The Janata Dal (United) Nagaland unit has expressed support for the cabinet’s decision to implement the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation (BEFR), 1873, in the districts of Dimapur, Niuland, and Chümoukedima.

In a statement, the party, however, raised objections to the cabinet's decision to establish two separate cut-off dates for exemptions under the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system—December 1, 1963, and November 21, 1979, for categories I and II, respectively.

According to the JD(U), since non-Nagas residing in Nagaland during these periods could already access Permanent Resident Certificates (PRC) and Domicile Certificates under the current decision, having two cut-off dates seemed redundant.

The party argued that this dual approach could lead to unnecessary confusion, as all non-Nagas from these periods would be entitled to the same benefits.

As a solution, the JD(U) suggested that there should be only one exemption category, proposing that the cut-off date should align with the creation of Nagaland on December 1, 1963. This, they argued, would simplify the enforcement of the ILP regulations.

Additionally, the party emphasized that the long-term granting of ILPs must be handled with caution to ensure the original intent of the BEFR, 1873, is upheld.

The JD(U) proposed the creation of an independent body, the Nagaland Inner Line Regulation Commission (NILRC), with both legislative and executive authority over ILP-related issues.

The party also called for separate legislation on adoption, distinguishing between Nagas by blood and by adoption.