SHILLONG: Expressing concern over the rising demand for introduction of the Inner Line Permit system in Assam, Chief Minister Dr Mukul Sangma has said that there is a need to analyse the reasons behind the demand in other North Eastern states.
Pointing out that the rising demand for ILP in Assam is a major concern for Meghalaya Dr Sangma said that since the issue of illegal immigrant in Assam is bigger it has become a matter of greater concern.
Asked for his thoughts on why there has been a demand for ILP in Assam, Dr Sangma said “it could be due to the larger ramifications of illegal immigration.” Dr Sangma, further, stated that the NGOs in Assam might have referred to the principal act of the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation, 1873, under which the law was applicable in many districts of Assam like Kamrup, Nagaon, Lakhimpur and Cachar.
“Meghalaya’s concern about illegal immigration is born out of the fact that Assam, which is a neighbouring state, has a big chunk of illegal immigrants,” the Chief Minister said.
It may be noted that recently, the All Assam Students’ Union had taken out torchlight rally across the entire state to demand introduction of ILP in Assam.
