Concerns Raised Over ILP Enforcement at Arunachal Pradesh Border
Memorandum Submitted to Chief Minister
Guwahati, July 4: The All Tai Ahom Students’ Union (ATASU) Kamrup (Metro) District Committee has presented a memorandum to Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, expressing their worries regarding alleged unlawful inspections and harassment related to the Inner Line Permit (ILP) at the Arunachal Pradesh border.
Basant Gogoi, the president of ATASU Kamrup (Metro) District Committee, reported that there have been instances where self-appointed groups are reportedly mistreating individuals during ILP enforcement.
“These groups have been verbally assaulting travelers from Assam, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, South India, and other regions, sometimes even in the presence of law enforcement. Recently, at the Gumto check-gate in Arunachal Pradesh, our vice president, Bitu Gohain, faced misconduct from non-State actors while police were present,” Gogoi stated. The memorandum was submitted on June 26.
He emphasized that such actions, conducted under the guise of ILP enforcement, not only harass legitimate Indian citizens but also jeopardize the historically friendly relations between the two neighboring states.
“We are in full support of the ILP system and recognize its significance due to Arunachal Pradesh’s unique geopolitical and ethnic situation. However, its implementation should be carried out by authorized government bodies. The harassment of ordinary citizens by unauthorized individuals is intolerable,” Gogoi added.
Previously, a delegation led by Basant Gogoi met with Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein and Home Minister Mama Natung in Itanagar regarding this issue. They also submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister’s office in Arunachal Pradesh.
ATASU has called on both state governments to ensure that ILP checks are performed legally and with respect, safeguarding the dignity and rights of Indian citizens. The union has also demanded stringent action against those misusing the ILP system for personal or political motives.