The National Hynniewtrep People Federation (NHPF) has decided to submit a constitutional appeal seeking the implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) in Meghalaya. The representation will be addressed to Congress President Rahul Gandhi through the Member of Parliament representing the Voice of the People Party.
In a press synopsis, the organisation cited the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation, 1873, as the statutory basis for the ILP, stating that it empowers the government to regulate the entry, stay and movement of non-residents in protected tribal areas. It also referred to constitutional safeguards under the Sixth Schedule, as well as Articles 244, 275, 19(5), and 371 of the Constitution of India.
It maintained that the ILP is a regulatory mechanism that does not affect lawful residents or professionals. It noted that the system is already in force in Nagaland, Mizoram, and Arunachal Pradesh. The NHPF further argued that the ILP would help safeguard tribal land ownership, cultural identity, and traditional livelihoods, while also addressing employment concerns and strengthening internal security in a border state.