Imphal: Chief Minister N. Biren Singh participated in the celebration of the 5th Anniversary of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) System in Manipur, held at the City Convention Centre, Imphal. The event featured an interactive session with beneficiaries of the “CMESS – Special Package to Startups/Entrepreneurs for Employment of IDPs” under the Manipur Startup Scheme 2.0.
Addressing the gathering as the Chief Guest, N. Biren Singh highlighted that Manipur became the first state to implement the ILP system post-independence. Traditionally, the ILP had been limited to states with predominantly tribal populations, such as Mizoram, Nagaland, and Arunachal Pradesh. However, in recognition of Manipur’s distinct cultural and demographic uniqueness—with approximately 40% of its population being tribal—the NDA government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, extended the ILP system to the state on December 9, 2019.
Singh noted that several other states, including Assam, Meghalaya, and Sikkim, have also been advocating for the introduction of ILP. He expressed his gratitude to the central government, particularly Prime Minister Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, for their support in implementing the system in Manipur. The Chief Minister also acknowledged the contributions of civil society organizations (CSOs), student bodies, and the people of both the hills and valleys in advocating for ILP.
Referring to Manipur’s journey since statehood in 1972, Singh described the implementation of ILP in 2019 as a landmark achievement aimed at protecting the indigenous population.
On Refugee Management and Crisis Resolution
Addressing concerns about discrimination against refugees from Myanmar, the Chief Minister clarified that no instances of hostility or abuse have been reported in detention centers or temporary shelters. He emphasized the state government’s efforts to provide food, shelter, and medical care to the refugees while ensuring that biometric data of all illegal immigrants is recorded. He reiterated that the ILP applies exclusively to Indian citizens, while the detection and deportation of foreign nationals are handled under the Foreigners Act, with Superintendents of Police (SPs) acting as Foreigners Registration Officers (FROs).
Singh also discussed ongoing efforts to restore peace and normalcy in the state. He mentioned recent meetings with community leaders, including Thadou and Hmar representatives, aimed at resolving the crisis. He commended the signing of peace agreements among communities while cautioning against attempts by vested interests to derail the peace process. Unity, he stated, is essential to ending the unrest.
Tribute and Felicitations
During the program, Chief Minister Singh led attendees in paying floral tributes to Lamjing Meira Sapam Robinhood. He also felicitated representatives of CSOs, student organizations, and other stakeholders who played key roles in advocating for ILP implementation.
The event was attended by Cabinet Ministers, MLAs, the Chief Secretary of Manipur, administrative officers, officials from the Home and Planning Departments, and internally displaced persons (IDPs) from various relief camps, among others.
