DIMAPUR, SEPTEMBER 5 (MExN): The Rising People’s Party (RPP) has strongly condemned the Progressive Democratic Alliance (PDA) government for its "lackadaisical" approach to the pressing issue of illegal immigration and the unchecked influx of immigrant populations into Dimapur district and Nagaland.
In a statement issued by RPP Secretary Lhikhro Kreo, the party expressed alarm over what it described as the uncontrolled arrival of thousands of non-locals into the state, particularly Dimapur, without proper verification. Kreo noted that Nagaland’s limited land and small local population made it especially vulnerable to the threat of illegal immigration. The government’s inaction, the RPP stated, raises serious questions about its commitment to protecting the interests of its people.
The RPP emphasized the importance of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) in safeguarding the cultural heritage of the state’s indigenous communities by regulating the influx of outsiders. The party highlighted the effective statewide implementation of the ILP in Mizoram under the same Inner Line Permit Act, and contrasted this with Nagaland’s failure to do so. “Is the government weak, pressured, or driven by vested interests?” the statement asked.
While the party acknowledged the recent efforts by the Dimapur administration and police to conduct verification checks at the railway station, following public outcry on social media, it warned that such actions would be merely superficial if the root issue of ILP implementation is not addressed.
The RPP also expressed support for the Dimapur Naga Students' Union (DNSU), condemning the threats made against the student body for its plan to verify the non-local population. The party reiterated the need for the enforcement of ILP across the state, particularly in Dimapur, which it described as a “hotbed for anti-social elements” due to unchecked illegal immigration.
The RPP called for immediate reinstatement of the ILP in Dimapur and its effective implementation throughout the state.
Additionally, it demanded a thorough verification of the non-local population and regular checks of ILP and other documents at all checkpoints across Nagaland.
The party called for collective action from Dimapur-based youth organizations to come together to combat the illegal influx and urged Naga citizens to press the government for decisive action. The RPP vowed to continue applying pressure on the PDA government until the issue is resolved, warning that history will remember those in power for their failure to act on this critical matter.
