NSF flags illegal immigration threat in Nagaland

Dimapur: Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) president Mteisuding Harang on Saturday flagged the escalating threat posed by unchecked illegal immigration in Nagaland, warning that continued negligence would endanger opportunities for the future Naga generations.

He was speaking at a coordination meeting convened by the NSF with the Lotha Hoho, the apex body Lotha Naga tribe, and its frontal organisations at Lotha Hoho headquarters in Wokha to discuss strengthening the Inner Line Regulations (ILR) and related concerns.?

Harang expressed serious concern over the random issuance of inner liner permits (ILPs), permanent resident certificates, and trade licences to non-locals, calling it a harmful trend that weakens indigenous rights.

He also reminded the federation of its obligation to defend Naga identity, culture, and traditions.

Chairing the meeting, NSF vice president Vimeyiekho Vitso underscored the need for immigration control to safeguard the indigenous identity and socio-economic future of the Naga youth.

Sechumo NSN Lotha, chairman, inner line regulation commission of NSF, reaffirmed the need for collective action to safeguard the rights of indigenous citizens.

Giving a detailed presentation on ILR sensitisation, he reiterated the urgent need for the state government to take serious cognizance of the recommendations submitted by the NSF.

Some of these recommendations included establishment of ILP checkpoints at Dimapur airport and Dimapur railway station, which remained major entry points for non-indigenous individuals into the state.

Mhondamo Ovung, president, Lotha Hoho, stressed that poor ILR enforcement and its inadequate monitoring have spiked illegal immigration.

He urged the authorities to reflect on why outsiders continue to enter the state.

All organisations present at the meeting reaffirmed their shared responsibility to protect the Naga identity and ensure a secure future for the younger generation.

The meeting resolved to intensify cooperation, pursue stronger ILP enforcement mechanisms, and uphold the dignity, culture, and rights of the Naga people.