Is Meghalaya's Assembly Resolution on ILP Just a Political Game?
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Synopsis
In Meghalaya, the demand for the Inner Line Permit (ILP) has reignited political debates. VPP chief Ardent Basaiawmoit accuses both current and past governments of insincerity. As infiltration concerns rise, the call for genuine action intensifies. Will the Centre finally respond to the longstanding plea for ILP?
Key Takeaways
- Political games surrounding ILP demand in Meghalaya.
- Assembly resolution lacks genuine intent, according to VPP.
- Geographical context: Meghalaya is under the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation of 1873.
- Concerns over large-scale infiltration after eviction drives in Assam.
- Call for action from the Central government remains unanswered.
Shillong, Sep 12 (NationPress) Ardent Basaiawmoit, the president of the Voice of the People Party (VPP) and MLA, criticized both the present and previous administrations in Meghalaya for engaging in political maneuvers regarding the demand for the Inner Line Permit (ILP). He asserted that the resolution enacted by the Assembly urging the Centre to adopt ILP lacked sincere motivation.
While addressing the media, Basaiawmoit emphasized that Meghalaya does not require an Assembly resolution for the implementation of ILP.
“Given that Meghalaya is already included under the preamble of the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation of 1873, ILP could have been enacted merely through a notification,” he contended.
The VPP leader further alleged that significant infiltration is occurring across various regions of Meghalaya following eviction drives in the neighboring state of Assam.
He accused the state government of not taking sufficient measures to tackle this issue, which he believes jeopardizes the demographic equilibrium of the state.
The demand for the ILP—a regulation from the British era that limits outsider entry into specific notified areas—has been a longstanding concern in Meghalaya.
In December 2019, after the passage of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly unanimously passed a resolution requesting the Centre to extend ILP to the state.
Chief Minister Conrad Sangma has consistently asserted that his administration is dedicated to advocating for this demand. He has raised the topic multiple times with the Union Home Ministry, insisting that ILP is vital for safeguarding the identity and interests of Meghalaya's indigenous population.
Nonetheless, the Central government has yet to make a definitive decision on the issue.
While civil society organizations and student groups continue to campaign for ILP, critics like Basaiawmoit argue that successive administrations have merely leveraged the issue for political gain without effectuating any real changes.
Point of View
The ongoing debate surrounding the Inner Line Permit in Meghalaya highlights a crucial intersection of regional identity and national policy. The concerns raised by VPP's Ardent Basaiawmoit reflect a broader sentiment among indigenous communities seeking protection against demographic changes. As civil society organizations continue to push for action, it remains essential for the government to address these issues with transparency and urgency.
NationPress
12/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Inner Line Permit (ILP)?
The Inner Line Permit (ILP) is a regulation that restricts the entry of outsiders into certain areas, aimed at protecting the rights and interests of indigenous populations.
Why is the ILP demand significant in Meghalaya?
The demand for ILP is crucial in Meghalaya as it addresses concerns about demographic changes and the protection of indigenous culture and identity.
What has been the response of the Meghalaya government to the ILP?
The Meghalaya government, led by Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, has expressed commitment to pursuing the ILP demand with the Central government.
How has the political landscape affected the ILP issue?
Critics, including VPP president Ardent Basaiawmoit, argue that the ILP issue has been used by successive governments for political gain without substantial progress.
What are the implications of infiltration in Meghalaya?
Infiltration poses a threat to the demographic balance of Meghalaya, raising concerns among local communities about their identity and resources.
