Daily Current Affairs : 3-December-2024

Recently, the Manipur government has initiated a review of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system, due to violations in its implementation. This highlights the need for strict enforcement of the ILP rules to protect the interests of local communities and ensure proper regulation. Let’s explore what ILP is, its purpose, and its significance in the context of the state’s governance.

What is the Inner Line Permit (ILP)?

The Inner Line Permit (ILP) is an official travel document that Indian citizens from outside certain protected regions must obtain to enter and stay in those areas for a specified period. The ILP system aims to regulate the movement of people in sensitive regions, ensuring that the local culture, economy, and demographics are preserved.

Origin and Governing Law

The ILP system dates back to the colonial era, originating under the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation Act of 1873. This law was initially introduced to safeguard the interests of the British Crown in sensitive frontier areas. Today, it is governed by the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958, which controls entry for foreign tourists, and by state-specific ILP regulations for Indian citizens.

States Under the ILP System

Currently, the ILP system is enforced in four northeastern states:

  • Arunachal Pradesh
  • Nagaland
  • Mizoram
  • Manipur

These states have their own specific ILP guidelines that Indian citizens must follow.

Departments Involved in ILP Implementation

The Home Department of each state is primarily responsible for overseeing the implementation of the ILP system. The respective state governments play a key role in issuing and regulating these permits.

Features of the ILP System

The ILP system comes with several important features:

  • Mandatory for non-residents: Only Indian citizens from outside the designated states need the ILP to enter.
  • Limited stay period: The permit specifies the duration of stay allowed in the state.
  • Different categories: There are various types of permits, including labour permits, regular permits, and tourist permits.
  • Cultural and demographic protection: The primary aim is to protect the local culture, demographic balance, and economic interests of the region.
Important Points:

Inner Line Permit (ILP): A travel document required for Indian citizens from outside certain states to enter and stay in protected regions.Origin: Introduced during the colonial era under the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation Act of 1873 to protect Crown interests.Governing Law: Managed under the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958, for foreign tourists and state-specific ILP rules for Indian citizens.States Under ILP: Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Mizoram, and Manipur.Departments Involved: The Home Department of each state and the respective state governments handle ILP implementation.Issuing Authority: ILPs are issued by the concerned state authorities.Features:

  • Mandatory for non-residents to enter designated states.
  • Specifies a limited stay period.
  • Includes different types of permits: labour, regular, and tourist permits.
  • Aims to protect local culture, demographics, and economic interests.

Recent Review: The Manipur government has reviewed the ILP system due to violations, emphasizing the need for stricter enforcement.

Why In News

Recently, the Manipur government launched a review of the ILP system following violations, highlighting the importance of stringent implementation. This review underscores the need for better enforcement mechanisms to prevent misuse and ensure that the ILP continues to serve its intended purpose of protecting the region’s cultural and demographic integrity.

MCQs about The Importance of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) System
  1. What is the primary purpose of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system?
    A. To allow foreigners to stay permanently in certain states
    B. To regulate the movement of people and protect local interests
    C. To facilitate easier travel between Indian states
    D. To control foreign investment in protected areas
    Correct Answer: B. To regulate the movement of people and protect local interests
    Explanation: The ILP system is designed to regulate the entry and stay of non-residents in sensitive areas to protect the local culture, economy, and demographics.
  2. Which of the following states is NOT currently governed by the ILP system?
    A. Arunachal Pradesh
    B. Nagaland
    C. Manipur
    D. Assam
    Correct Answer: D. Assam
    Explanation: The ILP system is currently enforced in Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Mizoram, and Manipur. Assam is not included under this system.
  3. What is the origin of the Inner Line Permit (ILP)?
    A. Introduced by the Indian government in 1947
    B. Originated during the British colonial era under the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation Act, 1873
    C. Created after the independence of India in 1950
    D. Established in the 1960s to protect tourist areas
    Correct Answer: B. Originated during the British colonial era under the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation Act, 1873
    Explanation: The ILP system was first introduced by the British colonial government in 1873 to protect Crown interests in frontier areas, and it continues to regulate movement in these regions today.
  4. Which department is primarily responsible for overseeing the implementation of the ILP system?
    A. Ministry of External Affairs
    B. Home Department of the respective state
    C. Ministry of Tourism
    D. Department of Foreign Affairs
    Correct Answer: B. Home Department of the respective state
    Explanation: The Home Department of each state is primarily responsible for overseeing and enforcing the ILP system within its jurisdiction.

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