There is an all round failure in the NE region particularly Nagaland to come to grips with the problem of illegal immigration. The problem of illegal immigration in Nagaland particularly in Dimapur has now become alarming just because we did not care to see through a problem assuming an alarming proportion over the past 3and 4 decades and have developed the habit of letting a problem fester to such an extent that it becomes intractable in course of time. The law and order problems of the N.E region have staggered from bad to worse, with this dangerous influx of illegal migrants of an estimated 12 million Bangladeshis since 1971, which posses a grave concern because in course of time it could adversely affect the unique culture and the demographic profile of our region which has already affected some of our neighboring states, like Tripura, Assam, etc. Even politically these immigrants, especial1y Bangladeshis are now in a position to influence results of elections. We are, largely to be blamed due to the patronage of our own vested people, especially politicians, bureaucrats and our incompetent government and its concerned departments, these illegal migrants are able to sustain and survive. This problem is complicated further by the fact that the 'Indo-Bangla border remains largely unnatural and porous.
There is a grave concern over the large scale migration in our state from outside specially Bangladeshis. This unchecked influx of il1egal migrants could change the demographic profile of our state. More over, there exists a great security threat with the growth and influence of the LS.L which is evident from the various jehadi groups like the S.I. M.I. in our region. The recent unearthing of nexus with terrorist elements by the Ao Students Union (A.K.M), is only the tip of iceberg. With these problems in our hands we cannot simply ignore and let our state become another AFGHANISTAN, IRAQ and IRAN. Infact, it is inevitable if the problems are not effectively tackled before it goes out of proportion. We can take the classic example of Tripura, where the original indigenous inhabitants are now reduced to minorities. The impact of illegal immigration has been equally profound in Assam too. According to some statistical survey, from 1891 till 2000, the state population grew from 20% to 53% which is alarming by any standard. Thus, the then president of the All Assam Student Union, wryly remarked "We used to say Assam is an integral part of India, but now we should be saying, it is an integral part of Bangladesh". These are some of the problems which by now, the govt. should take measures in the interest of our own internal security. The Supreme Court of India too has expressed fears that the unchecked migration of Bangladeshis to the N.E region poses a threat to both the economy and security of our country. These illegal migrants are "eating into the economy of the country and to a large extent, have become a security threat". The apex Court also criticized the Government for not taking any steps to curb the influx. "If this is not checked, the problem will go on aggravating", the apex court observed. The problem of illegal migrant in Nagaland has now become a knotty problem which should be viewed very seriously and necessary actions taken by the Government and other NGO's. Here a question arises, should the nagas allow the problem to assume the proportions of another Tripura OR Assam? In order to safeguard our own interest and internal security, with particular reference to this menace, have to be given the importance they merit. The stand taken by the NSF regarding this menace should be applauded, but the problem still grows unabated. Recently, the Ao Students Union (AKM) launched a drive against the illegal migrants and unearthed the real picture which could have resulted in serious consequences. The effort of the AKM is commendable. This was followed by the Konyak Students Union and Angami Students Union. Their efforts should be supplied by all sections of the people, and urge the other Unions to follow suit. .In order to address the problem effectively, State Government with other NGO's backed by a strong public working in tandem and concerted effort could actively check the infiltration of illegal immigrations in our state. Strict enforcement of ILP Regulation, the BEFR Act of 1873, the Traditional and customary laws of the Nagas, strict implementation of immigration and labor laws and take necessary steps to stop Nagas patronizing illegal immigrant. Discourage illegal immigrants from obtaining unmovable properties, and specially ban migrants marrying into Naga societies. Even, the non-Nagas should not be al1owed to carry out research work on Naga history, without approval and consent of the Nagas, in order to safeguard Naga history from further distortion.
Nagas are not against any community or have ill intention towards them. The non-locals should also acknowledge the Nagas who are peace loving, hospitable and kind inspite of the humiliation, harassment and difficulties meted out to the Nagas when we are outside our state, particularly the student community. In order to avoid victimization of genuine citizens, the non-locals should extend co-operation in identifying illegal migrants, lest you become the victim, so that the sentiments of genuine Indians is not hurt.
The different national Naga groups should also realize the adverse implication of this menace and instead of patronizing and overlooking the problem, before it takes us to a point of no return, they should stand up to its principle and sacred duty to safeguard the interest and security of its people so that Nagaland does not become like another of our neighboring state.
With unemployment on the rise and declining social and economic security of our people, the problem of illegal immigrations has further compounded the misery of the people. If the menace is not tackled now, it will destroy the political, economic and social stability of not only Nagaland but the NE Region and the entire country.
Vikaho Chisho,
New Colony, Zunheboto
