Lack of clarity regarding the Inner Line Permit (ILP) implementation in Meghalaya has frustrated the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU), as nearly six years have passed since the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly unanimously requested the central government to extend the ILP system to the state. KSU president Lambokstarwell Marngar expressed concerns about the ongoing delay, questioning whether it stems from a lack of seriousness on the part of the state government or the central government’s unwillingness to act. Despite attempts by the KSU to engage in discussions with central ministers, no progress has been made.
Marngar pointed to the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act (MRSSA), which has been active since 2016, and criticized the state government for not clarifying measures taken to implement this Act effectively. The state government has only stated that the matter is under examination by the Government of India. Marngar warned that the failure to implement ILP and MRSSA threatens the demographic integrity and identity of Meghalaya’s indigenous population, underscoring the urgent need for action to protect their interests.