Manipur Police Arrest Over 200 Non-locals for ILP Violations in Ongoing Drive
Summary
Manipur Police launched a special enforcement drive on August 7, 2025, under the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation, 1873 (as extended by a 2019 Presidential Order), to clamp down on Inner Line Permit (ILP) violations. Over the past week, authorities verified 2,412 individuals at high-traffic chokepoints—markets, National Highway 102, Maram-Peren and Tadubi-Tolloi roads—and arrested more than 200 non-locals who either lacked valid ILP passes or carried expired ones. The drive, led by the Senapati District Police Task Force, collected roughly ₹30,000 in permit fees and continues at all major border entry points to ensure strict compliance with the ILP system
At its heart, the latest ILP drive is about more than enforcing a travel rule. It’s a flashpoint where history, culture, law, technology, economy and human stories all intersect. For Manipur, safeguarding identity and security goes hand in hand with welcoming the outside world in a regulated, respectful manner.
Will the recent arrests and verifications resolve all tensions? Far from it. But they signal a turning point: the state’s determination to stand by its regulations, and its willingness to adapt through technology and stakeholder engagement. The road ahead may be bumpy, but a well-oiled ILP system can pave the way for harmony—one permit at a time.
FAQs
- What is the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system and why was it introduced?
The ILP is an internal travel authorization for select northeastern states, rooted in colonial-era regulations, designed to manage migration, protect local communities’ demographic balance, and safeguard cultural heritage. - How many people were verified and arrested during the recent Manipur drive?
Authorities verified 2,412 individuals, arresting over 200 non-locals—170 for lacking any ILP and 134 for carrying expired permits. - What legal authority underpins this drive?
The operation is backed by the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation, 1873, extended to Manipur via a 2019 Presidential Order (S.O. 4433(E)), granting the state power to enforce ILP compliance. - How are technology and digital tools improving ILP enforcement?
Mobile verification units linked to central databases, online permit portals, and QR-coded e-permits are streamlining checks and reducing bureaucratic delays. - What measures can ensure ILP enforcement remains fair and efficient?
Key steps include transparent digital platforms, multi-lingual support for applicants, anti-corruption vigilance, and stronger collaboration between government, civil society and businesses.
