Inner Line Permit (ILP)

Inner Line Permit (ILP) Latest News

Indian Railways Likely to Shelve Projects in Meghalaya Due to Local Opposition

What is the Inner Line Permit (ILP)?

• The Inner Line Permit (ILP) system, originally an offshoot of the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation (BEFR), 1873, remains a crucial tool for protecting indigenous tribal communities in India's Northeastern states.
• ILP is an official travel document issued by the state government to regulate the entry of non-residents into restricted areas of certain states.
• It is required for Indian citizens who are not permanent residents of these states.
• The system was introduced to protect indigenous communities from exploitation and preserve traditional cultures.
• ILP States in India: Currently, four states require an ILP for entry: Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Mizoram and Manipur (ILP extended in 2019)

Legal Basis of ILP

• Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation (BEFR), 1873: Originally introduced by the British colonial government. It created an "Inner Line" to restrict the movement of outsiders into tribal areas.
  • Aimed at protecting tribal autonomy and preventing land alienation.
• Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958: Defines the Protected Areas between the Inner Line and the International Border.
  • Foreigners require a Protected Area Permit (PAP) beyond this point.
• Foreigners (Restricted Areas) Order, 1963: Declares Andaman & Nicobar Islands and parts of Sikkim as Restricted Areas.

Difference Between ILP and Protected Area Permit (PAP)

Current Status of Rail Connectivity in Meghalaya

• Meghalaya has only one railway station, Mendipathar (North Garo Hills), operational since 2014.
• Daily passenger train service runs between Mendipathar and Guwahati.
• Freight services began recently.
• The Northeast Frontier Railways (NFR) had planned three additional projects in Meghalaya.
  • Tetelia-Byrnihat Railway Line
  • Byrnihat-Shillong Railway Line
  • Chandranathpur-Jowai Railway Line

Inner Line Permit (ILP) FAQs

Q1: What is the Inner Line Permit (ILP)?

Ans: The ILP is an official travel document required for non-residents, including Indian citizens from other states, to enter and stay in certain protected areas of Northeast India.

Q2: Which states in India require an ILP?

Ans: As of now, ILP is required in Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Manipur.

Q3: What is the purpose of the ILP?

Ans: The ILP is meant to regulate the entry of outsiders into certain states to protect the indigenous cultures, traditions, and resources of the local communities.

Q4: Who issues the ILP, and how can it be obtained?

Ans: The respective state governments issue ILPs, which can be obtained online or offline through designated offices or portals.

Source: IE