Tribal Forum Urges Arunachal Government to Strengthen Inner Line Permit Enforcement
Amid growing concerns over illegal immigration, the Arunachal Indigenous Tribes Forum (AITF), a prominent tribal body in Arunachal Pradesh, has called for stricter enforcement of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system to stem the influx of illegal immigrants into the state.
The AITF raised alarms over the increasing number of illegal immigrants, especially in border districts and the capital region, emphasizing that this poses a serious threat to Arunachal’s security, demography, and socio-cultural fabric. The organization has urged the state government to take immediate action to address this issue.
Community-Based Organizations Convene to Address Immigration Concerns
During a meeting with various community-based organizations (CBOs) on Saturday, the AITF discussed the wide-ranging impact of illegal immigration on the state’s security, demographic balance, and socio-political stability. The forum emphasized the urgency of tackling the issue before it becomes an even greater crisis for the state.
The AITF expressed concern that illegal immigrants are becoming involved in criminal activities, citing recent busts of illegal sex rackets in different parts of the state. The tribal body warned that unchecked immigration could lead to a rise in similar incidents, thereby endangering public safety.
Northeast India Faces a Regional Immigration Problem
The AITF highlighted that Arunachal Pradesh is not alone in facing the challenge of illegal immigration. Neighboring northeastern states, including Assam, have also been grappling with the influx of immigrants, particularly from Bangladesh. The forum noted that political instability in Bangladesh has prompted many to flee, with the northeast being a preferred destination due to its proximity.
The forum expressed its view that the influx of illegal immigrants is not just a security threat but an existential one. The cultural and demographic shifts caused by immigration could erode the indigenous identity of the people of Arunachal Pradesh. In response, the AITF called on the government to treat this issue with the utmost priority and ramp up surveillance at all entry points along the state’s borders.
Increased Vigilance at State Borders and ILP Checks Urged
The AITF urged the state government to step up vigilance at all entry gates, particularly along the borders with Assam and other states. It recommended deploying additional forces to prevent illegal crossings and enforce stringent ILP checks. According to the forum, regular and thorough inspections of ILPs are crucial to ensuring that only legitimate visitors enter the state.
Additionally, the AITF called for better scrutiny of the ILP issuance process. The tribal body suggested that authorities should implement foolproof mechanisms when granting permits to avoid exploitation of the system by illegal immigrants. The forum stressed that proper vetting would reduce the chances of immigrants illegally entering and residing in the state.
Government Action Requested to Safeguard Arunachal’s Future
The AITF’s statement has put pressure on the state government to act swiftly in addressing illegal immigration. The tribal body has made it clear that the issue threatens not just the present but the future of Arunachal Pradesh, and has urged the authorities to treat the matter with the urgency it deserves.
With the potential for social unrest, demographic changes, and security risks, the AITF has called for a coordinated effort to strengthen border security, enforce ILP regulations, and take decisive steps to safeguard the indigenous population.
The Path Forward for Arunachal Pradesh
As the state continues to grapple with the challenges posed by illegal immigration, the AITF’s recommendations serve as a roadmap for the government. If implemented effectively, these measures could significantly curb the influx of illegal immigrants and preserve the cultural and social integrity of Arunachal Pradesh.
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