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DIMAPUR — The Naga Students' Federation (NSF) has expressed deep concern over the potential influx of illegal immigrants from Bangladesh in light of the ongoing civil unrest in the neighbouring country.
While demanding immediate action to prevent such a situation, the student body cautioned the potential repetition of historical patterns, citing influx of illegal immigrants following the 1947 partition of India and the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, which significantly impacted the demographic and socio-economic landscape of the Northeast region.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the NSF said that Nagaland is already grappling with the effects of unabated illegal immigration, which has left the state to deal with a complex web of issues.
It highlighted several key concerns, including the potential threat to the cultural identity and traditional way of life of the indigenous Naga people. It also pointed out the strain on limited resources, as well as increased competition for employment and public services, which they argued could lead to economic instability and hardship for Nagaland's existing population.
Furthermore, it said that the arrival of large numbers of illegal immigrants has the potential to ignite social unrest and conflict within communities.
Stating that the current civil unrest in Bangladesh could exacerbate these tensions, leading to further instability, it called on the government of Nagaland to take immediate and decisive action to prevent a repeat of the historical patterns of mass immigration.
“Further, we urge the government to immediately liaise with the neighbouring state counterparts to strengthen border security, implement stringent immigration controls, and ensure the rigorous enforcement of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system,” it said.
The NSF also appealed to local authorities and village councils to remain vigilant in preventing the issuance of Permanent Residential Certificates (PRCs) to illegal immigrants, thereby safeguarding the interests of the indigenous Naga population.
Reiterating its commitment to protecting the cultural identity and well-being of the Naga people, it urged for a collective effort from all stakeholders to address the complex challenges posed by illegal immigration and ensure the stability and prosperity of Nagaland and the Northeast region as a whole.
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